This episode tackles societal polarization and the erosion of critical thinking by reimagining parenting as a catalyst for democratic values. You’ll learn how to nurture children’s ability to question authority, engage empathetically with diverse viewpoints, and balance personal rights with civic responsibility in an increasingly divided world.
Fathali M. Moghaddam is a Professor of Psychology at Georgetown University and the Editor of the Cambridge University Press Progressive Psychology book series. A leading expert in political psychology, his research explores the psychological foundations of democracy, radicalization, and social change.
His work examines how political systems shape human behavior and how individuals and groups respond to societal threats. Dr. Fathali has authored numerous influential books, including Mutual Radicalization: The Psychology of How Groups and Nations Drive Each Other to Extremes (2018), Threat to Democracy (2019), Shakespeare and the Experimental Psychologist (2021), How Psychologists Failed (2022), Political Plasticity (2023), and The Psychology of Revolution (2024). His scholarship bridges psychology, political science, and cultural studies, offering critical insights into the forces that drive conflict and transformation in societies worldwide.
In this episode of Raising Parents, Fathali explains how parents can teach democratic values in their children by fostering open dialogue, encouraging critical thinking, and allowing them to question authority. Fathali illustrates the importance of political debate in the family by using his experiences throughout the Iranian revolution, stating that parenting has a direct influence on how children view authority and civic participation in the future.
Fathali also emphasizes how cultural influences, literature, and media influence children’s political and social awareness. Children understand empathy and the problems of society by viewing all these diversification of themselves and society through other families and external sources.
He argues that authoritarian parenting, which discourages questioning, may limit critical thinking, while authoritative parenting encourages open discussions that prepare children for active engagement in democratic societies. Additionally, the episode highlights how stress affects parenting decisions, emphasizing the need for effective communication to support children’s emotional and intellectual development.
Furthermore, Fathali underscores the importance of balancing personal rights with social responsibilities, a concept often overlooked in modern discourse. In an era of increasing polarization, he encourages parents to equip their children with the tools to navigate differing viewpoints with thoughtfulness and respect. By fostering an environment of open discussion and critical reflection, parents can help shape future generations that are politically aware, empathetic, and engaged in their communities.
Parenting with political intentionality fosters resilient, empathetic citizens. Open discussions at home—where children safely question authority and explore diverse perspectives—combat societal polarization. Authoritative parenting styles, coupled with exposure to literature and media that challenge biases, build critical thinkers who balance rights with responsibilities. As Fathali asserts, democracy isn’t just a system; it’s a daily practice rooted in humility, curiosity, and the courage to embrace “not knowing” together..
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