Erik Brooks

Erik J. Brooks is an Instructional Assistant Professor in the School of Communication at Chapman University. His research is focused on diagnosing and addressing political polarization in the United States, namely the continual increase in the way and degree to which American partisans dislike, distrust, and disdain each other, as well as the effects of this continuing phenomenon. Uniquely approaching polarization from a communicative perspective, he uses qualitative and quantitative methods to examine Americans’ beliefs, opinions, experiences, and worldviews to better understand the deeper and more fundamental nature of existing political divides in America.

Dr. Brooks teaches courses on persuasion theory, business and professional communication, and communication research methods. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he is also passionate about helping and supporting veterans' groups at the local and national level, as well as being a voice and advocate for student veterans on campus.