This special issue seeks to address this gap by presenting a comprehensive collection
of both theoretical and practical insights into moral language, argumentation, and
evaluations within politicized environments. Our overarching objective encompasses
three main facets. We investigate how studies in communication, media, and behavioral
sciences can contribute to the understanding of morality. The special issue also evaluates
the ways in which interdisciplinary approaches shed light on the evolving dynamics
of moral politics, including the formation of in-group and out-group identities. Finally,
the contributions scrutinize the extent to which contemporary understandings of public
discourse and socio-political tensions enrich discourse on morality. Rather than merely
presenting isolated instances of public moralization and its consequences, this special
issue initiates a timely and much-needed scholarly dialog concerning the public discourse
and sentiments surrounding moral issues.
