About
Dr. Cynthia Peacock focuses on political communication, exploring how people engage, or choose not to engage, with political ideas in their social networks and today’s media environment. Her research investigates how individuals form, change, and express their political opinions, both online and offline, and how diversity of thought and disagreement influence public dialogue and civic participation.
In her research, Dr. Peacock examines how information exposure and social networks shape people’s understanding of politics and their willingness to engage with others. Her work highlights the importance of everyday communication in sustaining democratic engagement and building bridges across ideological divides.
Impact Beyond the University
Dr. Peacock’s research contributes to broader debates about the health of public discourse in a polarized society. Her findings help journalists, educators, and policymakers better understand how media environments and social networks influence civic behavior.
By identifying the conditions that encourage thoughtful discussion and discourage hostility, her work offers pathways for promoting constructive disagreement and informed citizenship. Her expertise in deliberation, media effects, and civic engagement informs initiatives aimed at improving political communication in classrooms, communities, and digital spaces. Her work has been featured in national outlets such as The New York Times and National Public Radio.
A Passion for Teaching and Social Impact
Dr. Peacock is an award-winning educator who encourages students to see communication as both a personal skill and a civic responsibility. She teaches courses on political communication, media and democracy, politics and social relationships, and communication theory, inviting students to analyze how media messages and social interactions influence attitudes, behaviors, and participation.
Her mentorship empowers students to think critically about media consumption, political identity, and public dialogue. By fostering curiosity and respect for differing perspectives, Dr. Peacock prepares her students to become thoughtful communicators and active participants in democratic life.