The Hidden Drivers of Polarisation: Why People Become Radicalised — Dr. Joel Vos
The Weekend UniversityShow Notes
In this episode, Niall speaks with Dr. Joel Vos, a researcher and psychotherapist who specialises in meaning in life, existential psychology, and the roots of polarisation and extremism.
Dr. Vos has conducted research at universities across Europe and has worked directly with individuals involved in political movements and radical groups. His work brings together academic research and real-world experience, offering a clear perspective on why people radicalise and how societies can respond.
In this conversation, they explore:
— Why polarisation and extremism are rooted in threats to meaning in life
— The four ways people respond when they cannot live the life they want
— Why many government approaches to extremism fall short, and what may work better
— The idea of existential compassion, and why it may help reduce conflict
— Practical ways to engage with people whose views you strongly oppose
And more.
You can learn more about Dr. Vos’s work at https://joelvos.com.
---
Dr Joel Vos PhD MSc MA CPsychol AFBPsS FHEA is a psychologist and philosopher, a Chartered Psychologist and Associate Fellow with the British Psychological Society. He lectures and conducts research at the Metanoia Institute in London. He is the director of IMEC International Meaning Events and Community. He has trained as an existential-humanistic, cognitive-behaviour, group and contextual family psychotherapist. He has given therapy to thousands of clients in different mental health care settings, including his private practice. He has developed psychological treatments which has been validated in clinical trials, and which are now used worldwide.
---
Interview Links:
— Dr. Vos’ websites: https://joelvos.com
— Dr. Vos’ books: https://joelvos.com/books
More from The Weekend University
This episode features a conversation between Jeremy Lent and Professor Peter Hawkins. This discussion is part of a series that Peter will be doing with some of the major thinkers and writers of our time, focusing on the necessary evolution of human consciousness, for humans to be future-fit to live on this planet in a way that makes a net-positive contribution to the wider ecology. The series is being done jointly with: The Weekend University and the Renewal Foundation.
A.N. Whitehead's Process Philosophy — Matt Segall & Peter Hawkins by Insights for Evolving Consciousness.
Ann and Sue are therapists, podcasters, and co-authors of the newly published book Secure Relating. Known for their work on modern attachment theory, Ann and Sue offer a fresh perspective on the process of building and maintaining secure relationships, moving beyond the traditional focus on attachment categories to a more fluid and dynamic approach.
In this episode, Niall speaks with Jayson Gaignard, founder of Mastermind Talks and author of the newly released book “Community Made”.
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Haesun Moon— a coach, communication scientist, and author of the bestselling book: Coaching A to Z.