All in the family
New studies show that caste and ethnic identity play an outsize role in how business interacts with government in developing countries.
In international relations, it’s the message, not the medium
Research surveys show warnings issued by world leaders are taken equally seriously whether issued on social media or through formal statements.
MIT’s Science Policy Initiative holds 13th annual Executive Visit Days
MIT students traveled to Washington to speak to representatives from several federal executive agencies.
How do reasonable people disagree?
A study by philosopher Kevin Dorst explains how political differences can result from a process of “rational polarization.”
In online news, do mouse clicks speak louder than words?
Partisan media might deepen political polarization, but we should measure people’s media habits more carefully before drawing conclusions, researchers say.
Analyzing pathways to persuasion
When it comes to shaping political beliefs, MIT postdoc Chloe Wittenberg PhD ’23 finds video captivates, but might not beat text.
Designing a revolution
An MIT professor and students collaborate with Chilean partners for an exhibition marking 50 years since the Allende presidency.
Finding solidarity in the teachers’ lounge
MIT PhD candidate Elizabeth Parker-Magyar finds close workplace networks among educators drive their activism even outside of democracies.
Q&A: The BRICS expansion and the global balance of power
MIT political scientist Taylor Fravel examines the potential and limitations of a bigger BRICS group of countries — and what it means for the U.S.
Apekshya Prasai: Up in arms
New research shows how female activists resist patriarchy on the battlefield and beyond.
When rumors take flight
Professor Adam Berinsky’s new book examines the political misinformation that threatens the US system of government.
How an “AI-tocracy” emerges
In China, the use of AI-driven facial recognition helps the regime repress dissent while enhancing the technology, researchers report.
Study: Microtargeting works, just not the way people think
In politics, tailored ads make sense, but with real limits to the tailoring.
Why social movements must innovate
On-the-ground study of Sudan shows how protestors have kept their tactics evolving in the face of oppressive rulers.
Facing up to democratic distrust
Study: False assumptions about election malfeasance could create a “death spiral” for democracy — but also provide some hope for bipartisan repair.