Nov 74 min read

Leveraging Education to Mitigate Division and Extremist Behavior in the United States

Authors:Todd M. Price, MBA, Ph.D.(c)Amber R. Oquindo, MSHS, Ph.D.(c)

Affiliation:Global Counter-Terrorism Institute (GCTI)

Date: 7 November 2024

Summary:This article examines the role of education in reducing susceptibility to political polarization and extremist behavior within the United States. Using insights from the Price-Oquindo Dynamic Threat Mitigation (DTM™) model—a patent-pending predictive system—and The 25 Immutable Laws of

Introduction

As co-founder of the Global Counter-Terrorism Institute (GCTI) and an academic dedicated to advancing counter-terrorism and security research, I have closely examined how a lack of education (LE) influences societal divisions and increases susceptibility to extremist behavior. The Price-Oquindo Dynamic Threat Mitigation (DTM™) model, a patent-pending system, identifies LE as a critical factor that heightens vulnerability to polarizing narratives, especially when combined with “algorithmic politics” and divisive political rhetoric. In this analysis, I highlight actionable, evidence-based steps to mitigate these risks and foster a more cohesive society.

Using insights from the DTM™ model and The 25 Immutable Laws of Geopolitical Strategy, I provide an objective assessment of how education can counteract social and political fragmentation. The solution begins with addressing foundational educational needs and implementing targeted, research-backed interventions.

The Role of Education in Reducing Susceptibility to Polarization

Studies indicate that limited access to quality education decreases individuals' critical thinking skills and makes them more susceptible to manipulative narratives. This vulnerability can lead people into ideological echo chambers, where reinforcement of existing beliefs fuels division and mistrust1. Research highlights that enhancing media literacy—particularly through education—helps individuals critically assess and verify information before accepting it as truth2.

In the U.S., where algorithms often prioritize emotionally charged content, education is crucial to equipping individuals with tools to navigate this complex information environment effectively. Media literacy empowers people to question information and recognize biases, making them less likely to fall prey to divisive rhetoric3.

Applicable Geopolitical Strategies

Drawing from The 25 Immutable Laws of Geopolitical Strategy, several principles are especially relevant in applying educational interventions to address these issues:

The Law of Leadership: Effective leadership in educational policy can foster a national emphasis on critical thinking and media literacy. Leadership in this area can drive public and educational reforms that equip citizens with resilience against divisive narratives4.
The Law of Perception: Perception shapes reality in politics and society. Educated citizens are better able to discern between fact and manipulation, thereby reducing the impact of misleading narratives5.
The Law of Focus: Concentrating resources on foundational educational reforms, such as critical thinking and media literacy, has the most significant impact on reducing polarization without diluting efforts on unrelated initiatives6.
The Law of Line Extension: Political reliance on polarized rhetoric can lead to societal instability. Education serves as a counterbalance, providing individuals with analytical skills to discern and resist manipulative tactics7.

Risk Assessment Based on the DTM™ Model if LE Remains Unaddressed

Using the DTM™ model’s weighted formula, I calculated a risk score based on existing LE data in the U.S. This model underscores a significant risk of increased polarization and extremism if educational needs remain unaddressed.

T=α(SES)+β(PI)+γ(IE)+δ(SD)+ϵ(LE)+ζ(PSF)+η(EI)T = \alpha(SES) + \beta(PI) + \gamma(IE) + \delta(SD) + \epsilon(LE) + \zeta(PSF) + \eta(EI)T=α(SES)+β(PI)+γ(IE)+δ(SD)+ϵ(LE)+ζ(PSF)+η(EI)

In this context, we apply a high weight (ϵ=0.30\epsilon = 0.30ϵ=0.30) to LE. For example, recent data show that literacy rates hover around 85%, media literacy availability at 30%, and exposure to polarizing content at 75%8. Calculating these factors within the DTM™ model results in an LE impact score of 19, indicating high vulnerability to societal fragmentation if LE remains inadequately addressed.

Evidence-Based Strategy for Social Cohesion

Based on these findings, GCTI advocates a multifaceted approach supported by peer-reviewed research to implement the following:

Expand Media Literacy Programs: National media literacy initiatives can empower individuals to assess digital content critically. Studies published in the International Journal of Communication indicate that media literacy improves discernment, particularly among younger audiences vulnerable to online misinformation9.
Leadership in Educational Reform: Strong leadership can drive necessary reforms that prioritize critical thinking and media literacy. Government and community leaders should actively champion these reforms in schools and community education programs10.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Promoting awareness of digital manipulation and the role of algorithms in shaping public perception can encourage individuals to approach information critically11.
Partnerships with Social Media Companies: Collaboration with tech companies to promote algorithmic transparency and credible information sources can reduce the prevalence of polarizing content. Partnerships between the education sector and technology firms can support responsible information sharing and build resilience against divisive content12.

Non-Biased Analysis and Strategic Recommendations

Addressing LE as a factor requires a non-partisan approach, acknowledging that educational disparities and media literacy gaps affect people across the political spectrum. Reducing susceptibility to extremist narratives should be a shared goal beyond ideological divides.

By implementing these strategies, we can leverage education to bridge social divides and promote societal cohesion. The DTM™ model and GCTI research findings support the conclusion that strategic educational reforms can mitigate extremism, reduce polarization, and enhance national unity. If we embrace these reforms, we have the opportunity to fundamentally reshape how society responds to divisive narratives, fostering a more informed and unified country.