In a world where anger pervades every aspect of our lives—manifesting in heated social media debates, political divides, road rage, social justice movements, and even criminal acts—understanding its roots and impact has never been more critical. Join acclaimed psychoanalyst Josh Cohen and award-winning broadcaster and author Claudia Hammond (Emotional Rollercoaster: A Journey Through the Science of Feelings), led in conversation by The Conduit’s Editor-in-Chief, Matt Farquharson, as they delve into how anger shapes our emotions, relationships, and public discourse.

Drawing on insights from neuropsychology, philosophy, literature, and real-world case studies, the panel will examine the different forms and consequences of anger, including its role in fuelling misinformation, deepening political divides, and threatening democratic stability. This thought-provoking conversation will explore the root causes of our collective anger and discuss how rage might influence—and even transform—pathways for informed dialogue, democratic resilience, and positive social change.

Speakers:

Josh Cohen is a psychoanalyst and Professor of Modern Literary Theory at Goldsmiths, University of London. He is the author of Not Working; The Private Life, and How to Read Freud, as well as other books on psychoanalysis, cultural theory and modern literature. He has written for the Guardian, Observer, FT and NewStatesman among others, and been interviewed on BBC radio.

Claudia Hammond is an award-winning broadcaster, author, and psychology lecturer dedicated to exploring how psychological and medical research can enhance our everyday lives. She shares these insights through a variety of platforms, including radio, TV, podcasts, public events, and books. Claudia presents several acclaimed shows and podcasts, including All in the Mind on BBC Radio 4, which delves into psychology, neuroscience, and mental health, and the global health program Health Check on BBC World Service. She is also a Visiting Professor of the Public Understanding of Psychology at the University of Sussex. In addition to her broadcasting work, Claudia gives talks on psychology worldwide and frequently chairs public events on psychology, medicine, and science. She also contributes a regular column to BBC Future, debunking medical myths.

Moderated by Matt Farquharson, editor-in-chief at The Conduit. He is a Sunday-Times-bestselling author, former writer for The Times, The Independent and The Telegraph, and an award-winning editor, podcaster and script-writer.