Insights From

Batten Institute

Global Study Reveals Best Ways to Influence Climate Beliefs and Behaviors

A landmark study of 60,000+ people across 63 countries reveals how specific messages — from emotional appeals to future-focused thinking — impact climate beliefs, policy support and real action. The key? Tailored strategies, not one-size-fits-all campaigns.

Good Disruption: Quantum Computing

For decades, we have used quantum physics to power MRI machines, solar panels, and lasers. More recently, big tech companies have entered a race to quantum supremacy, where quantum computers surpass silicon-based super computers in speed and complex problem solving. But what is it?

Carried Interest Under Fire: The Controversial Tax Break Trump Wants to Eliminate

Carried interest is once again under scrutiny in Washington. UVA Darden Professor Les Alexander explains what it is, why it's controversial and how proposed changes to its tax treatment could reshape the landscape for private equity and venture capital.

Good Disruption: Digital Twins

Computer simulations have been used for decades to predict outcomes. Now digital twins create virtual environments that not only mirror their real-world counterparts but also respond to real-time data to yield more confident decision making.

Fake It Till You Fail: Elizabeth Holmes and the Theranos Story

A new business case on infamous tech company Theranos examines the risks for entrepreneurs, board members and investors in the fog of the innovation economy.

Good Disruption: Humanoid Robots

Hollywood has long portrayed robots as friendly and misunderstood but also a technology to be feared if left in the wrong hands. Today, humanoid robots are being designed not only to carry out simple tasks but also, display a broad range of emotions and react to people in real-time. But just because we can build it, should we?

Interest Rates and Space: How Home Size Affects Consumer Spending

New research from UVA Darden Professor Dan Murphy reveals how home size and urban density affect consumer spending in unexpected ways.

Beyond COP29: A Novel Framework for Tackling Climate Change

Professor Saras Sarasvathy proposes a novel framework combining Elinor Ostrom’s institutional analysis and development model of collective action and effectuation to tackle climate change. Instead of relying on predictive top-down approaches, she advocates leveraging existing resources and partnerships while embracing unexpected opportunities.

What Is Electronic Voting, and Is it Secure?

With the U.S. presidential election looming, ballots, voting machines and election security are again in the news. UVA's David Nemer joins Good Disruption hosts Yael Grushka-Cockayne and Mike Lenox to discuss the role that culture and trust play in the acceptance of electronic voting and the importance of protecting the entire electoral process.

Good Disruption: Distributed Energy Resources (DERs)

Utility-scale power plants have long dominated electricity distribution. Now, distributed energy resources (DERs) like rooftop solar are changing this model. DERs can disrupt the grid if poorly managed, but if integrated well, can enhance efficiency and resilience. This shift marks a significant change in how energy is generated and distributed.