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When Democracy Breaks: A Critical Media Psychology Analysis of January 6 and January 8

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@jorgebscomm for @empowervmedia T wo acts of political violence. Two of the world's largest democracies. Two years and two days apart . On January 6, 2021 , supporters of Donald Trump stormed the United States Capitol. On January 8, 2023 , supporters of Jair Bolsonaro stormed the Presidential Palace, the National Congress, and the Supreme Federal Court in Brasília — simultaneously, and live on social media. These were not coincidences of the calendar. A new paper from EMPOWERVERSE  titled Democratic Rupture and Media Psychology: A Critical Comparative Analysis of the January 6, 2021 US Capitol Insurrection and the January 8, 2023 Brazilian Federal Buildings Attack , argues that they were locally embedded expressions of the same structural moment: one in which social media affordances , political disinformation, and authoritarian populist leadership converge to make anti-democratic collective violence not just possible, but psychologically foreseeable. "Democrac...

Exploring the Interplay Between Psychology and Communication

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The Psychology-Communication Nexus: A Visual Exploration C ommunication is more than words; it's a window into the human mind. By understanding how psychology and communication intersect, we unveil the secrets of how we connect, influence, and navigate our social world. In this article, we dive into the fascinating interplay between these two realms, demystifying complex concepts for everyone to grasp. "The art of communication is the language of leadership." - James Humes The Dance of Influence Ever wondered why certain words evoke strong emotions? That's psychology in action. Words trigger feelings, memories, and even decisions. This phenomenon, known as " psycholinguistics ," explores how language affects our minds and behaviours. From marketing messages to casual chats, the psychological impact of words is undeniable. Advertisement: Scroll down to continue Advertisement "Digital Body Language: How to Build Trust and Connecti...

The Power of Communication in Shaping Societal Norms

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C ommunication is more than just words; it's a force that shapes the very fabric of our society. From the way we interact to the beliefs we hold, communication plays a pivotal role in shaping societal norms. Whether you're a media-savvy student or someone curious about human behaviour, understanding this power can unlock a new level of insight into our world. Breaking Down Societal Norms Societal norms are like the unwritten rules that guide our behaviour. They dictate how we dress, speak, and even think. But have you ever wondered how these norms come to be? That's where communication steps in. Think of it as a web that connects us all. Through conversations, media, and even nonverbal cues, we pass on ideas that gradually become accepted norms. "Communication doesn't just reflect society; it shapes it. The messages we transmit influence the beliefs we hold and the norms we follow." - Deborah Tannen The Ripple Effect of Media Media, whether through news, movi...