Self, Identity & Ego Processes

Summary: This audio and video recording by David Bohm examines the pervasive phenomenon of self-deception across individual, group, and societal contexts, drawing connections to identity processes and advanced metacognition. Its analysis is relevant to understanding how self-deception shapes thought, conflict, and collective awareness.

Summary: This study examines how perceived differences in external threat between ideological groups within societies involved in intractable conflicts can increase affective polarization, revealing a mechanism through which internal fragmentation is exacerbated. The findings highlight the interplay between intergroup conflict and intragroup dynamics, offering insights into how such processes may perpetuate conflict.

Summary: Drawing on social identity and intergroup threat theories, this study analyzes survey data from Sweden to show that perceived intergroup threat among voters is associated with increased affective polarization, measured through social distance, negative trait attribution, and party like-dislike ratings. The findings extend understanding of political polarization beyond the US two-party context to multi-party systems.

Summary: This study systematically reviews research on affective polarization, revealing that the concept is increasingly applied beyond political parties to encompass divides based on opinion, ideology, race, territory, and religion. It argues for a dynamic understanding of identity salience in the public sphere and examines how intergroup hostility connects to broader democratic concerns.