Carolyn Long

Carolyn Long, an associate professor who studies civility, shame, and political behavior, explores how shame used to check leaders and why politics now rewards shamelessness. She discusses televised turning points, how campaigns incentivize outrage, differences between shame and guilt, why shaming backfires, and ideas for changing incentives to restore accountability.

Carolyn Long, associate professor who studies shame, ethics, and political behavior, explores why shamelessness some leaders display persists. She contrasts 1950s social norms with today’s media incentives. She explains how shameless tactics win attention and donations, why shaming opponents often backfires, and what cultural or systemic changes might reduce shameless political behavior.