Thomas Nelson

Thomas Nelson is a Professor in the Department of Political Science at Ohio State University, where he heads the Political Psychology Minor Program. His research focuses on political psychology, experimental methods, and American politics, particularly examining how social values influence political communication and intergroup relations.

His research explores how values-based messaging shapes political attitudes, tolerance, and perceptions of racism. Current projects investigate persuasion mechanisms in political discourse and the psychological foundations of civil liberties debates.

Publication trends show consistent focus on experimental approaches to political cognition, with recent work expanding into climate change communication and racial inequality. His methodological expertise spans survey design, framing experiments, and tolerance measurement.

Honors include the Erik Erikson Early Career Award from the International Society of Political Psychology (2002) recognizing his contributions to political psychology research.

Nelson serves as Associate Editor for Social Influence journal and teaches courses in public opinion, political psychology, and experimental research methods.