ask theory, political science, aries arugay

Hosted by EIC Mikael Angelo Francisco, Ask Theory shines the spotlight on Pinoy scientific brilliance, in a fun and entertaining “kwentuhan” format. Each episode of Ask Theory  features a Pinoy scientist from one of the various scientific disciplines. In a very casual conversation, guests explain what they do in simple terms, as well as share their fascinating stories: how they got into science, the challenges they face, what motivates them to pursue their fields, what future scientists from the Philippines can look forward to, and so much more.

Episode 127: Science Ba Talaga Ang Political Science?

Dr. Aries Arugay is the Professor and Chair of the Department of Political Science of the University of the Philippines Diliman. He is also the Editor-in-Chief of Asian Politics & Policy, an international Scopus-indexed journal on regional affairs. In 2020, he was the sole social scientist to receive the Outstanding Young Scientist Award from the National Academy of Science & Technology, for his contributions to the “study of democratization processes and consolidation, security sector reform, and strategic studies in the Philippines and Asia.”

We talked about the current state of Philippine democracy, why disinformation spreads so easily and can be so convincing, how the public reacts to scientists giving opinions on national issues, misconceptions about the social sciences, and more.

How to contact Dr. Aries:

  • Website: polisci.upd.edu.ph
  • Twitter: @ariesarugay
  • Facebook: fb.com/wargod

Listen to Ask Theory Episode 127 here:


(Full transcript to follow; watch this page for updates)


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Music: Hopeful Cinematic Ambient by bdProductions; My Mysterious Planet by Free Music

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