Published Jan 10, 2022

#187: Understanding Mass Formation with Mattias Desmet

Explore the concept of 'mass formation' with Professor Mattias Desmet as he critiques societal norms, examines the impact of virtual versus real interactions, and challenges pandemic responses, revealing how collective identity can lead to irrational groupthink and division.

Episode Highlights

Topics covered

Questions from this episode

- How does social media impact isolation?
  Asked by 215 people
- How does social media affect mental health?
  Asked by 140 people
- How does technology shape our lives?
  Asked by 118 people
- What are the problems with social media and smartphones?
  Asked by 111 people
- How can I build better social connections?
  Asked by 89 people
- How does social media impact social behaviors?
  Asked by 74 people
- How can you support the podcast?
  Asked by 63 people
- What do experts say about social media isolation?
  Asked by 61 people
- How do you connect with people?
  Asked by 61 people
- Why do people distrust institutions?
  Asked by 60 people
- How did COVID-19 negatively affect society?
  Asked by 42 people
- Which experts are notable for their work on COVID topics?
  Asked by 26 people

#187: Understanding Mass Formation with Mattias Desmet

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Understanding Societal Discontent

Virtual vs Real Conversations

Rediscovering Connection

Pandemic Response Reflection

Relationship Insights

Psychological Mass Formation

Science and Ideology

Speaking Out

Collective Dialogue Challenges

Psychological Insights

Social Bond Formation

Mass Formation Process

Challenging Mass Formation

Fear of Belonging

Psychology of Totalitarianism

Questions from this episode

How does social media impact isolation?

How does social media affect mental health?

How does technology shape our lives?

What are the problems with social media and smartphones?

How can I build better social connections?

How does social media impact social behaviors?

How can you support the podcast?

What do experts say about social media isolation?

How do you connect with people?

Why do people distrust institutions?

How did COVID-19 negatively affect society?

Which experts are notable for their work on COVID topics?

Episode Highlights

Critiquing Normality

Human Connection

Pandemic Response

Mass Formation

#187: Understanding Mass Formation with Mattias Desmet

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Questions from this episode

Episode Highlights

Critiquing Normality

Human ConnectionMattias Desmet explores the profound differences between virtual and real-world interactions and their impact on social connectedness. He also examines the challenges of open dialogue in today's society, particularly in the context of the pandemic.

Human Connection

Pandemic ResponseMattias Desmet examines the statistical errors and societal impacts of pandemic responses, highlighting the psychological phenomenon of mass formation. He discusses how these factors contribute to groupthink and the challenges of altering entrenched narratives.

Pandemic Response

Mass Formation