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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...

The Role of Social Media in Shaping Behaviour and Attitudes

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FACT CHECKED ✅ I n an age where we're more connected than ever before, social media has emerged as a powerful influencer of our beliefs, behaviours, and attitudes. From politics to fashion, it's no secret that these platforms have a profound impact on our lives. But what exactly is the role of social media in shaping who we are? Social media has emerged as a powerful influencer of our beliefs, behaviours, and attitudes (📷  source ) Social media has transformed the way we communicate, consume information, and even view ourselves. It's the virtual stage where we showcase our lives, opinions, and values. As we scroll through our feeds, we are constantly bombarded with an array of content that shapes our perceptions, decisions, and ultimately, our behaviour. The Filter Bubble We all have our unique feed, tailored by algorithms to show us content that aligns with our previous choices. This filter bubble can limit our exposure to diverse perspectives, reinforcing our existing b...

Unravelling the Intricacies: Narcissism's Interplay with Fascist Ideologies

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N arcissism and fascism are terms frequently discussed in modern discourse, each rich with their own historical and psychological significance. But, how do these concepts intertwine? Let's embark on a journey that delves into their connection. Narcissism, the eco chamber of self-admiration. 📷 source Narcissism: A Primer Narcissism, rooted in the ancient Greek myth of Narcissus, is a term used in psychology to describe excessive self-admiration and self-centeredness. In its clinical form, narcissistic personality disorder , individuals possess an inflated sense of their importance, deep need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. Advertisement "What is Fascism?" ▶️1m09s The Rise of Fascism Fascism is a political ideology that emerged in the early 20th century, predominantly in Europe. It advocates for a centralized autocratic government led by a dictatorial leader, severe economic and social regimentation, a...

Media Effects on Public Perception: Evidence and Insights

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T he media plays a significant role in shaping our perception of the world around us. But how does it really affect us? In this article, we'll unravel the complex relationship between media and public perception, breaking down the evidence and offering insights that everyone can understand. 📷 source Media's Influence on Beliefs Have you ever noticed how news coverage can impact your opinions? It's no coincidence. Media can influence our beliefs and attitudes, often subtly. This phenomenon, known as media effects, is well-documented. It's essential to understand that what we consume through media can shape how we view the world. Advertisement "Media Effects" ▶️2m59s The Power of Framing One way media exerts its influence is through framing. The way a story is presented can change its perceived importance or even its meaning. For example, framing a crisis as an "opportunity for growth" versus a "disaster" can ...

Key Theories in Psychosociology: A Primer

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P sychosociology is the study of how society and our minds intertwine, influencing our behaviour, beliefs, and interactions. But the theories behind it can often seem complex. In this article, we'll simplify the key theories in psychosociology, making them accessible and relevant to everyone. 1. Social Identity Theory Imagine you belong to a group—be it cultural, racial, or professional. Social Identity Theory suggests that we derive part of our identity from these groups. It helps explain why we feel pride in our identities and sometimes prejudice against others. Understanding this theory sheds light on group dynamics and intergroup relations. Advertisement: Scroll down to continue Advertisement "Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life" by Marshall B. Rosenberg Embrace Nonviolent Communication. Learn the language of empathy. Foster better relationships. Get it on Amazon 2. Social Cognitive Theory Ever heard of ...