The Waning of Wisdom : The Psychology of Reasoning in the Post-Truth Era

This book offers an accessible introduction to recent psychological models of cognition, motivation and civic reasoning, applying them to pressing issues including vaccine hesitancy and political polarization. Written for graduate students, researchers, and general readers alike, it bridges social science research with urgent real-world concerns.

In an era of rampant misinformation, conspiracy theories, and political polarization, this book confronts the paradox between rational models of human cognition and seemingly irrational behavior. Drawing on cutting-edge research in psychology and other social sciences, it explores practical tools such as fostering digital literacy and cultivating 'wise deliberative spaces' grounded in argument, perspective taking, and moral inquiry. Written for graduate students, researchers, and general readers, E. Michael Nussbaum provides an accessible introduction to contemporary models of reasoning, motivation, and dialogue. With chapters on truth, talk, trust, and thinking, the volume presents a revised model of dual-process theory, linking it to deliberative dialogue while integrating insights from education, communication studies, philosophy, and political science. The result is a timely vision of cautious optimism for navigating today's post-truth challenges.