Returning to MIT in Fall 2025 after a successful 2023 edition, Directions of Polarization, Social Norms, and Trust in Societies: Perspectives from the Behavioral Sciences is a two-day interdisciplinary workshop that brings together scholars and practitioners to explore the evolving dynamics of polarization.
This year, the workshop broadens its scope to include insights from academia and industry, recognizing that polarization, shifting norms, and declining trust shape political discourse and affect workplaces, technologies, and communities. By drawing on a range of analytical perspectives — from behavioral science and social psychology to organizational research and public policy — the event aims to advance our understanding of how these forces emerge, interact, and can be addressed in an increasingly polarized world.
We will feature both speakers (faculty/post-docs/industry) and poster presenters (graduate students). To submit your work, see the information below.
An abstract is sufficient upon submission, although we encourage complete papers.
The submission deadline is July 14, 2025.
Acceptance emails will go out in August 2025.
Registrations open in September 2025.
The registration fee will cover breakfasts, lunches, and the speaker dinner.
Speaker: $290
Poster Presenter: $190
Non-Presenting Attendee: $150 ($100 Early Bird Registration!)
Kati Kish Bar-On (MIT)
Adam Berinsky (MIT)
Eugen Dimant (UPenn)
Yphtach Lelkes (UPenn)
David G. Rand (MIT)