-
Tytuł:
-
False polarization: Cognitive mechanisms and potential solutions
-
Autorzy:
-
Fernbach, Philip M.
Van Boven, Leaf
-
Źródło:
-
Current Opinion in Psychology; February 2022, Vol. 43 Issue: 1 p1-6, 6p
-
Although political polarization in the United States is real, intense, and increasing, partisans consistently overestimate its magnitude. This ‘false polarization’ is insidious because it reinforces actual polarization and inhibits compromise. We review empirical research on false polarization and the related phenomenon of negative meta-perceptions, and we propose three cognitive and affective processes that likely contribute to these phenomena: categorical thinking, oversimplification, and emotional amplification. Finally, we review several interventions that have shown promise in mitigating these biases.