Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard

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Keith Payne (on the psychology behind the political divide)

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Nov 13, 2024

Guest

Keith Payne

Keith Payne, a professor at the University of North Carolina and author of "Good, Reasonable People," dives into the psychological roots of America's political divides. He explores how socioeconomic status affects political beliefs, revealing unexpected voting patterns. The conversation includes the impact of education on political affiliation and the complexities of relationships amidst differing ideologies. Payne also highlights the influence of social factors on beliefs and the role of empathy in bridging divides, making for a thought-provoking discussion.

02:00:23

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INSIGHT

Dehumanization and Political Violence

Dehumanizing language is a warning sign for political violence.
It removes others from our circle of moral concern, making violence easier.

insights

INSIGHT

Identity Alignment and Political Stakes

Political, racial, and religious alignment increases political stakes.
Every election becomes an existential crisis, raising the risk of violence.

insights

INSIGHT

Rationalization and Self-Image

People rationalize to maintain a positive self-image.
Dax Shepard and Payne discuss how they rationalized their reactions to the Tara Reade allegations against Joe Biden.

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Exploring the Benefits of Audible and New Tech Innovations

01:47 • 2min

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Navigating Class and Political Divides

03:33 • 26min

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Beliefs and Bias: The Influence of External Factors

29:03 • 7min

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The Psychology of Political Beliefs

36:10 • 28min

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Education, Race, and Voting Patterns

01:04:01 • 7min

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Politics, Identity, and Personal Experience

01:10:42 • 21min

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Family Dental Habits and Humor

01:31:59 • 2min

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Navigating Choices and Oral Hygiene

01:33:39 • 12min

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Reflections on Podcast Success and Personal Anecdotes

01:46:05 • 2min

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Nostalgic Halloween Memories

01:48:30 • 8min

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Hayrides, Cooking, and Lottery Ethics

01:56:05 • 13min

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A Dark Web of Deceit and Danger

02:09:31 • 2min

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Keith Payne (Good Reasonable People, The Broken Ladder) is a professor and author. Keith joins the Armchair Expert to discuss the effects of economic segregation, the roots of our current divisions, and how some people feel about dating others with opposite political views. Keith and Dax talk about the psychological immune system, the better-than-average effect, and how tribalism plays a role in people’s politics. Keith explains the geopolitical effects of the Mason-Dixon Line, how education levels can predict someone’s political affiliation, and the misconceptions of how income is effecting our politics.

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