Humanities & Society

In her new book, political scientist Taylor Carlson, in Arts & Sciences, explores how political information changes as it flows from the news media to person to person. Her research shows that socially transmitted information becomes sparse, biased, less accurate and mobilizing — fueling a “distorted democracy.”

Mark Oppenheimer, a well-known religion journalist and author, is the new executive editor of Religion & Politics, an online journal published by WashU’s John C. Danforth Center on Religion and Politics.

In the early days of conflict when tension and fear are heightened, new research from political scientists in Arts & Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis finds women politicians are less likely to engage with the public and, when they do, are more likely to take on more nurturing roles.

A new book from the School of Law’s John Inazu offers a path for disagreeing productively and living joyfully in our divided society.

In a new paper published in the Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, Daniel M. Butler, in Arts & Sciences, argues that elections should be certified by nonpartisan commissions, rather than elected officials, to insulate the process from partisan influence.

Undergraduate student artists of any kind are welcome to apply for the Atkin Residency in the Art of Democracy. The application deadline is March 7.

The John C. Danforth Center on Religion and Politics at Washington University in St. Louis will host a discussion with Heather Cox Richardson, author of “Democracy Awakening: Notes on the State of America,” from 7-8:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 4, in Graham Chapel.

Planning to stay mum around the holiday table when the subject of politics comes up? Political scientist Taylor Carlson, in Arts & Sciences, says we would be better off learning to have open, respectful conversations with one another — especially with those who have opposing viewpoints.

Historian Colin Gordon will discuss his new book, “Patchwork Apartheid: Private Restriction, Racial Segregation, and Urban Inequality,” at a Public Interest Law & Policy Speakers Series event at noon Monday, Nov. 6, in Anheuser-Busch Hall. The book documents the history and consequences of private restrictions in greater St. Louis and other Midwest towns.