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PODCAST

Outrage Science Bites

David Beckemeyer

I’m publishing one podcast episode per day again in the month of November 2025 as part of a challenge called NaPodPoMo. It stands for National Podcast Post Month. November is National Podcast Post Month, and the goal of the challenge is 30 podcast episodes in 30 days. These will be bite-sized episodes related to the Outrage Overload podcast, on various topics, such as describing scientific phenomena discussed on the show. outrageoverload.substack.com

science

All Episodes

6:34

The Dark Side of Connectivity - NaPodPoMo 2024 - Day 20

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/20

In this episode of Outrage Science Bites, we look at the concerning relationship between the internet and the rise of extremism and disinformation. We explore how the internet, while providing unprecedented access to information, also facilitates the rapid spread of false narratives and radical ideologies. The episode highlights the concept of "do your research," emphasizing the disparity between its interpretation by experts, who rely on rigorous evidence-based processes, and the general public,

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5:30

AI and Outrage - NaPodPoMo 2024 - Day 19

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/19

This episode of Outrage Science Bites explores the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on outrage culture. AI-driven algorithms on social media platforms prioritize content that triggers strong emotions, particularly outrage, leading to a feedback loop that amplifies outrage and pushes users into echo chambers. AI can also create disinformation through deepfakes and bots, further inflaming tensions. However, AI can also be used to reduce outrage by detecting and flagging harmful content,

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5:54

The Role of Tech Giants in Polarization - NaPodPoMo...

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/18

This episode of Outrage Science Bites explores the role of tech giants in polarization and outrage culture. It emphasizes the immense power wielded by tech leaders like Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk, and questions their lack of accountability. The discussion highlights the disparity between their rhetoric of "personal responsibility" and the absence of consequences for their decisions. The episode also delves into the transhumanist vision promoted by these tech elites, raising concerns about the

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8:00

The Algorithmic Amplification of Outrage - NaPodPoMo...

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/17

In this episode of Outrage Science Bites, we examine the world of technology outrage, exploring how social media algorithms amplify outrage-inducing content. We hear from experts like Tobias Rose-Stockwell, who explains how these platforms unintentionally created products that drive outrage and extreme content. Research reveals that emotionally charged content, particularly moral outrage, keeps us glued to our screens, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and depression. Jonathan Stray emphasizes

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8:00

The Evolution of Online Communities - NaPodPoMo 2024...

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/16

This episode of Outreach Science Bites explores the evolution of online communities and how they have been shaped by social media platforms and the rise of smartphones. The introduction of the "like" button on Facebook transformed online interactions, making engagement a measure of social validation. Instagram's emphasis on visuals and ease of use further fueled the trend towards constant connectivity. The merging of social media and smartphone technology led to the development of engagement

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10:14

The Birth of the Internet - NaPodPoMo 2024 - Day 15

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/15

This episode of Outrage Science Bites explores the complex relationship between the Internet and democracy. The Internet, often hailed as a democratizing force, has also led to unintended consequences. C. Edwin Baker, a First Amendment scholar, cautioned that the Internet's underlying power structures remain concentrated in the hands of a few, limiting its democratizing potential. The episode also highlights the issue of atomization, where individual voices struggle to be heard amidst the vast

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7:55

Building Bridges: Strategies for overcoming...

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/14

This episode of Outrage Science Bites focuses on strategies for building bridges and overcoming political polarization. Experts emphasize that there's no single solution or "silver bullet" for this complex issue. Instead, a multifaceted approach is necessary, drawing on strategies used in international conflict resolution and adapting them to the domestic context. The importance of individuals with mixed ideologies is highlighted, as they can bridge divides between different communities. However,

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7:01

The Blind Spot: Why We Think We Have a Monopoly on...

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/13

This episode of Outrage Science Bites explores the psychology of polarization, focusing on the concept of the "blind spot" - our tendency to believe we have a monopoly on facts. The episode features insights from Åsa Wikforss, who discusses the phenomenon of "knowledge resistance," which explains our inclination to resist new knowledge that contradicts our existing beliefs. This resistance is driven by psychological mechanisms like confirmation bias and motivated reasoning, where we selectively seek

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7:18

Healthy Conflict: How to disagree without outrage -...

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/12

In this episode of Outrage Science Bites, we explore the complexities of healthy conflict: the delicate balance between fighting for justice and avoiding the destructive forces of hate and violence. Peter Coleman, a conflict resolution expert, emphasizes the challenge of holding two seemingly contradictory thoughts simultaneously: the need to fight for what we believe in and the need to do so without resorting to violence. He highlights the importance of nonviolence as modeled by leaders like Martin

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6:35

The Psychology of Tribalism - NaPodPoMo 2024 - Day 11

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/11

This episode of Outrage Science Bites explores the psychology of tribalism and why we tend to stick to our sides in the political arena. Tribalism refers to the way we form groups based on shared identities, beliefs, and affiliations. It influences how we perceive others, react to differing opinions, and engage in political discourse. The episode delves into the emotional roots of tribalism, highlighting the primal nature of human emotions and morality. Our brains are wired to prioritize loyalty to

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9:06

The Polarization of America - NaPodPoMo 2024 - Day 10

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/10

In this episode of Outrage Science Bites, host David Beckemeyer explores the growing polarization in America. Social psychologist Peter Ditto introduces the concept of political sectarianism, arguing that politics has shifted from debating ideas to a moral battle between good and evil. This moral divide makes compromise nearly impossible. Shannon McGregor discusses how radical views, particularly on the far right, have gained traction within political institutions, making today's polarization

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4:55

Extremism and Outrage - NaPodPoMo 2024 - Day 9

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/09

This episode of Outrage Science Bites explores the link between outrage and extremism. Outrage is a powerful motivator that can lead to radicalization when it goes unchecked. The episode discusses how outrage can cloud our thinking, making it difficult to see nuances and leading to a black-and-white "us versus them" mentality. It emphasizes that not everyone is equally vulnerable to this process, highlighting the role of psychology. People with higher integrative complexity, the ability to recognize

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6:07

The Root Causes of Political Polarization - NaPodPoMo...

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/08

This episode explores the root causes of political polarization, focusing on the psychological drivers behind our toxic political environment. We explore:* Tribalism and Group Identity: Humans' innate tendency to form in-groups and out-groups, leading to strong partisan identities and biases against those perceived as outsiders.* Affective Polarization: The tendency to view opposing partisans negatively and co-partisans positively, often overriding rational policy considerations.* Cognitive

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9:47

Information Literacy: Combatting Disinformation and...

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/07

In this episode of Outrage Science Bites, we explore how information literacy can help us navigate the turbulent waters of modern media and political polarization. Three expert guests share their unique perspectives on the skills we need to cut through misinformation and make informed decisions:* An astronomy professor explains why scientific thinking—not just memorizing facts—is key to resisting disinformation.* A librarian uncovers how media consumers like you are shaping the landscape of news and

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8:57

Digital Detox: Reclaiming Mental Health in the Age of...

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/06

In this episode of Outrage Science Bites, we're tackling the overwhelming digital world and its impact on our mental well-being. We'll explore the risks of passively consuming a constant stream of news and outrage-inducing content, and how it can leave us feeling anxious and stressed. Discover the importance of timing when it comes to social media use and how simple actions like getting enough sleep and exercise can be surprisingly powerful antidotes to outrage fatigue. We'll even hear a compelling

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8:40

Echo Chambers and How They Amplify Outrage -...

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/05

Feeling bombarded by political outrage? This episode of Outrage Science Bites discusses the science behind why we get so riled up, especially online. Host, David Beckemeyer, explores how social media algorithms and partisan news create echo chambers, fueling division and reinforcing biases. We'll hear from experts like Peter Ditto and Jonathan Stray on how social media and political identity contribute to this. But fear not! The episode also offers solutions. Learn how to break free from the "us vs

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9:04

Disinformation and Outrage: How false information...

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/04

In this episode of Outrage Science Bites, we discuss the disturbing relationship between disinformation and outrage. We explore how false information, strategically designed to mislead and manipulate, can ignite anger and deepen societal divisions.Key Points* Disinformation vs. Journalism: We discuss the critical distinction between disinformation and journalism, emphasizing the harmful intent behind disinformation campaigns.* Emotional Manipulation: Experts explain how disinformation exploits our

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7:55

Outrage Porn: What it is and why it's so addictive -...

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/03

In this episode of Outrage Science Bites, we dive deep into the world of outrage porn, exploring its definition, its pervasiveness in media, and the psychological reasons behind its addictive nature. We discuss how media outlets exploit our emotions for profit, the role of certainty in fueling outrage, and the potential consequences of unchecked outrage. We also touch on the potential for outrage to be a force for good when used deliberately and carefully.Key Takeaways:* Outrage porn is content

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8:25

Social Media's Impact: How algorithms fuel outrage -...

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/02

In this episode of Outrage Science Bites, we delve into the significant impact of social media algorithms on the content we consume and our emotional responses. Experts Mike Serazio, Tobias Rose-Stockwell, David Troy, and Ariel Hassel offer insights into how these algorithms work, their unintended consequences, and potential solutions for a healthier media ecosystem.Key Takeaways:* Social media algorithms prioritize engagement, favoring emotionally charged content that often leads to outrage and

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9:49

Media's Role in Amplifying Outrage - NaPodPoMo 2024 -...

Outrage Science Bites ·

2024/11/01

In this episode, we explore the challenges of traditional news media in the United States. From financial pressures to the competition for viewers, we examine the reasons why news outlets often prioritize sensationalism over objective reporting. With insights from a leading expert, we discuss the difficulty of producing compelling content based solely on facts and explore potential solutions to improve the quality of news coverage.Links:* Outrage Overload podcast:

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