wk11 Polarisation Flashcards
Group polarisation explanations
Persuasive arguments
Social comparison
Self-categorisation
Meta-contrast principle
Differences between groups are accentuated
Differences within groups are minimised§
Polarisation from Self-categorisation
Polarisation is a natural consequence of join groups
Perceived polarisation
Because of Meta-contrast principles, we believe out-group ideology is more extreme than it is
Stronger predictor of negative consequences
What happens when it is morally charged
They are fundamental beliefs about right vs wrong.
When challenged - highly emotional, stubborn, hostile and acceptance of violence
Support for strong leaders
Breakdown of social fabric = authoritarian strong leaders
Breakdown of leadership = progressive strong leaders
Solutions to polarisation
Correcting misperceptions
Paradoxical thinking
Correcting misperceptions
Conflicting findings, some reduce and some don’t
Paradoxical thinking
Exposing them to amplified exaggerated messages that are still congruent with their held beliefs.
It Disrupts habitual thinking patterns
Mirror images
Major conflicts have been characterised by the same set of exaggerated and grotesque perceptions (a mirror image in a twisted glass)
War and in-group solidarity
in war, support for current leadership inevitably goes up
Incentive for leaders?
Problems with war and in-group solidarity
Inhibits civil liberties and freedom of expression
A degré of dissent and internal criticism is often necessary in order to make good decision
Role of propaganda
Often focused on internal audience
designed to legitimise war, keep up morale, and crush internal dissent
Tricks of propaganda
Dehumanising helps replace the basic human repulsion that we experience at killing other humans with insensitivity
