Growing apart: What is polarisation and what can we do about it

Explore social polarisation and discover ways to prevent and reconcile divisions

From political debates to online communities, social divides are becoming more visible and harder to ignore. Learn to understand how division and polarisation emerges, how it affects the world around us, and how we can deal with polarisation to better bridge divisions.

Recognise and understand polarisation

Using real-world and classroom examples and combining expertise from sociology, psychology and political science, you’ll discover how polarisation is not only about split opinions but also about “us vs them” attitudes, lack of trust and broken communication.

Through detailed analysis, you’ll examine both cognitive biases and social dynamics, l identifying causes of growing divides between groups.

Develop strategies to manage polarisation and reflect on your role

Discover and practise practical ways to prevent and reduce polarisation, including techniques for respectful dialogue, fact-checking and going outside your bubble.

Engage and reflect on your role

Through structured reflection and guided exercises, you’ll recognise how your own attitudes, behaviours, and communication styles can either fuel or reduce polarisation in group settings.

You’ll walk away empowered to be part of the solution.

This course is ideal for anyone interested in social cohesion, particularly secondary and university students, teachers, and those curious about social division and dialogue.

For the models used in selected segments of the course we highly recommend that these are done on a large screen, either a PC, laptop or a tablet at least, as the models will not be easy to operate on a phone.

This course is ideal for anyone interested in social cohesion, particularly secondary and university students, teachers, and those curious about social division and dialogue.

• Identify signs of polarisation.
• Describe the process of polarisation.
• Reflect on the consequences of polarisation (for democratic societies).
• Identify major cognitive and social mechanisms leading to polarisation.
• Discuss measures to deal with polarisation, both related to prevention and reconciliation