Eschewing conspiracy, populism and science denial
How can we encourage individuals to engage with beneficial ideas, while eschewing dark ideas such as science denial, conspiracy theories, or populist rhetoric?
With this talk, we will explore the factors underpinning individuals’ engagement with ideas, proposing a model grounded in education, social networks, and pragmatic prospection (i.e. whether individuals have a forward-looking mindset). Beneficial ideas enhance decision-making, improving individual and societal outcomes, while dark ideas lead to suboptimal consequences, such as diminished trust in institutions and health-related harm.
Using statistical analysis of survey data from 7,000 respondents across seven European countries, we test hypotheses linking critical thinking, network dynamics, and pragmatic prospection to the value individuals ascribe to engaging with ideas, their ability to identify positive and dark ideas effectively and how individuals subsequently engage with ideas and who they engage in them with.
Our findings reveal how interventions in education, network development, and forward-planning could empower individuals to critically evaluate and embrace positive ideas while rejecting those that might be detrimental to themselves and others.
Professor Chris Brown
Professor Chris Brown is Professor of Education (University of Southampton), Head of the Southampton Education School and Distinguished Visiting Professor, University of Tübingen.
Chris has a long-standing interest in how people go about harnessing great ideas to improve the human condition. Traditionally Chris’ work has focused on the education system, but more recently Chris has turned his attention to the ‘ideas-informed society’ more generally, and how we can ensure ideas are available and used effectively to the benefit of everyone.
Chris has written or edited some 21 books and nearly 100 journal articles in the broad sphere of research, evidence and ideas-use.
Ruth Luzmore
Ruth Luzmore is a Research Fellow in Southampton Education School, and a lecturer at the National Institute of Teaching and Education, University of Coventry.
Ruth has nearly two decades of experience in England’s state education system, from teaching assistant to headteacher.
Her research focuses on how school leaders design and implement professional development, with current work on the Ideas-Informed Society initiative and the EU Horizon-funded MEGASKILLS project.
Standard Stuff
Talks are usually (December is always an exception) on the 4th Wednesday of every month, at 7:00 for 7:30, at The Winchester Club in Winchester. Please take a look at the FAQs for more info.
Admission is £5 which also gives you an entry in the book raffle. We take cash and major cards (cards preferred).
The event is in two parts – the talk and then a Q&A after the interval. We encourage you to support the venue by indulging in the available drinks before and during the event.
You are also welcome to join us for a drink in the bar after the event