Wandering in Social Cognition: a Journey into Shared Realities and Intergroup Dynamics

This book is a tribute to Anne Maass, written by her friends, former students, and colleagues from around the world. More than just shaping research questions and methodologies, Anne has touched the hearts of those fortunate enough to collaborate with her, spreading her passion for science in an inspiring and far-reaching way. Following her retirement from the University of Padova in 2022, she embarked on a new academic journey at NYU Abu Dhabi, making this the perfect moment to acknowledge and celebrate her profound impact on the field. The volume explores two fundamental processes of social cognition. The first focuses on the construction of shared reality, examining how language shapes our perception of the social and cultural world. Through various perspectives, the book illustrates how storytelling and linguistic structures influence our ability to understand emotions, stereotypes, and interpersonal dynamics. The second key theme is the formation of social categories and their impact on intergroup relations. From stereotype creation to the dehumanization of minority groups, it investigates the cognitive and motivational mechanisms that sustain social inequality. Blending theoretical insights with empirical research, this book not only honors Anne Maass’s scientific legacy but also inspires new reflections on the ways we construct, communicate, and transform our social reality.