Making the moral of the story stick − a media psychologist explains the research behind ‘Sesame Street,’ ‘Arthur’ and other children’s TV

Many children’s educational shows undergo pre-screening to make sure each episode delivers its intended message. Adult viewers watching alongside kids can help ensure the lessons are well received.

Samantha Vigil, Ph.D. Candidate in Communication, University of California, Davis • conversation
Feb. 23, 2024 • ~9 min

Republicans and Democrats consider each other immoral – even when treated fairly and kindly by the opposition

With growing polarization, political attitudes have begun to coincide with moral convictions. Partisans increasingly view each other as immoral. New research reveals the depth of that conviction.

Phillip McGarry, Ph.D. Candidate in Experimental Psychology, University of Tennessee • conversation
Feb. 1, 2024 • ~4 min

Red Arrows: narcissism, immorality and lack of empathy are behind the dark psychology that can poison elites

Elite groups often become trapped in echo chambers.

Geoff Beattie, Professor of Psychology, Edge Hill University • conversation
Nov. 6, 2023 • ~7 min

Narcissism, immorality and lack of empathy: the dark psychology that can poison elites

Elite groups often become trapped in echo chambers.

Geoff Beattie, Professor of Psychology, Edge Hill University • conversation
Nov. 6, 2023 • ~7 min

AI Jesus? Experts question wisdom of godbots

Researchers raise concerns about giving moral authority to artificial intelligence, specifically "godbots."

Morgan Sherburne-Michigan • futurity
Oct. 9, 2023 • ~11 min

Kindness has persisted in a competitive world – cultural evolution can explain why

Ancient religious customs have accelerated the evolutionary process of humans becoming more cooperative.

Jonathan R Goodman, Researcher, Human Evolutionary Studies, University of Cambridge • conversation
Sept. 25, 2023 • ~7 min

Humility is the foundation to a virtuous life

Humility doesn’t get the fanfare of virtues like courage, compassion or generosity. But without humility, those other virtues won’t get much traction in the quest to live a good life.

Jen Cole Wright, Professor of Psychology, College of Charleston • conversation
Sept. 13, 2023 • ~7 min

Org mission statements send moral (and political) signals

A study looks at differences in the moral values implicit in organizations' mission statements and how those values relate to the founders' politics.

Dawn McWilliams-Syracuse U. • futurity
Aug. 22, 2023 • ~5 min

‘Moral breakdown is a fake problem’

In new study, experimental psychologist takes on the stubborn perception of declining morality.

Christy DeSmith • harvard
June 14, 2023 • ~6 min

Why people feel ‘himpathy’ for sexual harassers

Employees' intuitive moral values may give rise to feelings of sympathy toward alleged sexual harassers and anger toward accusing victims.

Keith Kobland - Syracuse U. • futurity
March 28, 2023 • ~5 min

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