ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the role of uncertainty and distress in the radicalization of the social sciences, including social psychology and the consequences of that radicalization. Political extremism often emerges as a response to uncertainty. Ironically, extremism often constitutes an embrace of simplistic dogmas and myopic certainties about answers to complex questions. After reviewing these processes, how they might apply to and explain the radicalization of the American social sciences is discussed. Evidence is reviewed documenting the extent to which such radicalization has occurred. The chapter then reviews evidence regarding ways in which ideological extremism can threaten the validity of some of the most highly canonized conclusions in the social sciences. We conclude the chapter by specifying some clearly falsifiable hypotheses that have emerged from this perspective, including the prediction that the continuing radicalization of the social sciences will erode public trust and undermine the credibility given to the claims that emerge on politicized topics.
