Uncertainty
For many, this year has been full of uncertainty. In particular, the [removed] has generated uncertainty about health, about best practices and about the future.
At the same time, Americans have faced [removed] : first due to delayed results and now over [removed] .
Experiencing [removed] . People tend to prefer the planned and the predictable. Figures from 17th-century French philosopher [removed] to 20th-century Austrian philosopher [removed] have recognized the significance of having certainty in our lives.
With information so readily available, people may be checking news sites or social media in hopes of finding answers. But often, people are instead greeted with more reminders of uncertainty.
Polarization can lead to [removed] because in a deeply polarized society, as studies show, we can [removed] and tend to have less agreement.
For those inclined to take the views of others seriously, this can create additional cognitive work. And when the issues are heated or sensitive, this can create additional [removed] , such as sadness over damaged friendships or anger over partisan rhetoric.
Viral misinformation is everywhere. This includes [removed] and [removed] .
People are also inundated with advertising and misleading messaging from private corporations, what philosophers [removed] and [removed] have called “ [removed] .” And in 2020, the public is also dealing with [removed] .
What are your thoughts?