Giel Grens, BA

Political Dialogue
His research interest in political dialogue focuses on the processes through which people with differing views communicate, negotiate, and potentially reach understanding or compromise. He examines the role of dialogue in democratic societies, where constructive political discussions are essential for healthy civic engagement. This includes exploring how language, framing, and listening practices impact political conversations and how dialogue can be fostered across ideological divides to reduce polarization.

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Political Antagonism
In the realm of political antagonism, he investigates the dynamics of conflict and opposition within political landscapes. His work explores how competing groups, ideologies, and interests confront one another, analyzing the underlying causes of polarization and the effects of antagonistic interactions on social cohesion. This includes studying how political adversaries form identities around opposition and how power and resistance shape the discourse, especially in a time when ideological divides are more pronounced.

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Digital Social Spaces
His interest in digital social spaces focuses on the influence of online platforms—such as social media, forums, and virtual communities—on political discourse and behavior. He explores how these spaces shape public opinion, enable new forms of activism, and foster community among like-minded individuals, while also contributing to echo chambers and polarization. His research considers both the opportunities and challenges these spaces present for democratic engagement and collective identity formation.

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Fake News
In studying fake news, he is interested in the creation, spread, and impact of misinformation and disinformation in modern media. He examines the psychological and social factors that lead people to believe and share false information, as well as the effects of fake news on public opinion and trust in institutions. His work looks at both the intentional spread of fake news for political or financial gain and the accidental proliferation of false information, and he considers strategies to counteract these effects through media literacy and fact-checking.

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Post-Truth
His interest in post-truth as a research area involves examining the cultural shift in which emotional appeal and personal belief increasingly overshadow objective facts in shaping public opinion. He analyzes how post-truth politics has influenced political debates, leading to a blurred line between opinion and fact. His research delves into the philosophical and social implications of a post-truth era, investigating how society can confront this challenge through critical thinking, education, and the reinforcement of trustworthy information sources.