This dissertation examines contemporary literature from South Asia and Eastern Africa to explore how narratives of war and climate crisis reshape our understanding of survival, care, and belonging. Introducing the concept of the catastrophopic, it argues that Global South literature offers powerful frameworks for ecological responsibility and collective world-making.

Political polarization increases identity threat during social interactions. This study examines how liberals and conservatives respond to politically and apolitically negative comments. Results show different types of identity threat emerge depending on context, with both groups experiencing similar levels overall. Findings highlight the complexity and nuance of identity threat in political engagement.