Polarization and misinformation are among the greatest challenges of the 21st century. The Collaborative on the Science of Polarization and Misinformation (C-SPAM) at The Ohio State University facilitates research on the causes of these pressing issues and potential solutions to them. We do so using an interdisciplinary scientific lens.
What cognitive and behavioral factors influence people’s belief in misinformation? How can emergent technologies be used to address problems that technology itself has exacerbated? How do physiological and psychological human needs shape some of our most profound disagreements? C-SPAM brings together experts from across scientific specialties to address questions like these, and to facilitate research with implications for communication, national security, public health, sustainability and other sectors.
C-SPAM is far from alone in studying polarization or misinformation, but it is one of the only initiatives to focus on the science of these issues. At a time of deep partisan rancor and institutional distrust, we recognize the value of conducting research that yields empirical data and objective, replicable conclusions. We approach misinformation and polarization as phenomena linked to psychological, biological and behavioral processes, as well as to sociological and political structures in society.
C-SPAM draws on the unique collaborative strengths of the faculty at Ohio State. In keeping with the university’s mission as a land grant institution, we also aim to engage broad audiences with our research. Recognizing that educational barriers can contribute to the very issues C-SPAM investigates, we plan to share our work through both traditional scholarly publications and more open, widely available platforms, such as digital exhibits, podcasts, social media and public events. Alluding to the public resource C-SPAN, our name also underscores these ambitions.
C-SPAM is directed from within the Ohio State Department of Psychology, where it builds on a history of exceptional, innovative research about the human mind, brain and behavior. The collaborative began in 2024 with a generous gift from the Weary Family Foundation.
If you would like to learn more about C-SPAM or are interested in joining our research, please get in touch! You can reach us by emailing cspam@osu.edu or by completing our contact form.