Triggered: The Science of Internet Emotion

In this episode, we break down the neuroscience and psychology behind online outrage — why it feels addictive, why social media supercharges moral judgment, and how algorithms exploit our ancient tribal wiring. Drawing from research by Professor Molly Crockett, machine-learning studies on othering language, and insights from The Science of Hate, we explore how digital platforms hijack our reward systems, amplify us-versus-them thinking, and turn everyday users into outrage-driven reactors. This episode helps listeners understand why anger feels so rewarding online — and how to break the cycle.