Thomas Talhelm

Thomas Talhelm is an Associate Professor of Behavioral Science at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. His research explores how historical subsistence practices, particularly rice and wheat agriculture, have shaped modern cultural differences in China and globally. He has lived in China for five years as a Princeton in Asia fellow, Fulbright scholar, and NSF Graduate Research Fellow, founding the social enterprise Smart Air to provide affordable air purification solutions.

• PhD in Social Psychology, University of Virginia
• B.A. in Psychology and Spanish (with Highest Honors), University of Michigan

Talhelm’s work challenges conventional views of collectivism and individualism, demonstrating how rice-farming cultures foster interdependence, tighter social norms, and distinct cognitive styles compared to wheat-farming regions. He also investigates how cultural thought patterns influence political ideologies, showing that analytic thinking increases support for liberal policies while holistic thinking aligns with conservative views. Recent studies focus on pandemic behavior, relational mobility, and the psychological impact of water scarcity.

• Scientific Awards: Fulbright Scholar, NSF Graduate Research Fellow, Princeton in Asia Fellow
• Advising: Reviews PhD applications annually for students interested in culture, politics, or social ecology

Smart Air, his air purifier social enterprise, addresses public health challenges through cost-effective solutions. His teaching includes the course Culture (And Why It Matters), reflecting his commitment to bridging academic research and practical applications.