Kurt Gray

Kurt Gray is a Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He directs the Deepest Beliefs Lab and the Center for the Science of Moral Understanding, both focused on understanding morality, religion, and political divisions. His research bridges social psychology, political science, and philosophy to address societal conflicts.

Gray’s work emphasizes how moral judgments arise from perceptions of threat and vulnerability, offering pathways to reduce polarization. He is the author of the 2023 book Outraged, which proposes solutions to America’s political divides. His research has been featured in The Guardian, Greater Good Magazine, and TEDxReno.

Key themes in his work include moral foundations theory, empathy gaps between political groups, and mechanisms for fostering dialogue. He collaborates with institutions like the C-SPAM initiative and has held roles such as inaugural faculty director at C-SPAM. His interdisciplinary approach integrates neuroscience, cultural studies, and policy analysis to address real-world societal challenges.