ATTITUDE POLARIZATION Meaning and
Definition
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Attitude polarization refers to the phenomenon where individuals' attitudes or beliefs become more extreme or polarized after engaging in a discussion or interaction with others who hold similar views. It is a cognitive bias that occurs when people are exposed to information or arguments that reinforce their preexisting belief system or ideology.
When individuals converse with others who share similar opinions, there is a tendency for people to reinforce and amplify their own beliefs, leading to a more extreme or intensified stance on a particular issue. This polarization can occur across a broad range of topics, including politics, religion, and social issues.
Attitude polarization is influenced by various factors, such as the strength of a person's original beliefs, the perceived legitimacy of opposing views, and the persuasive techniques employed by others. It often occurs due to selective exposure to information, where individuals actively seek out and consume content that reinforces their existing attitudes or biases.
The consequences of attitude polarization can be both positive and negative. On one hand, it can lead to increased conviction and determination to advocate for one's beliefs. On the other hand, it can contribute to increased divisiveness and intolerance towards opposing views, making it harder to find common ground or reach consensus in discussions or decision-making processes.
Understanding attitude polarization is crucial in promoting open-mindedness, critical thinking, and constructive dialogue. By being aware of this cognitive bias, individuals can strive to evaluate information objectively, engage with diverse perspectives, and approach discussions with a willingness to consider alternative viewpoints. This can help mitigate polarization and facilitate a more inclusive and productive exchange of ideas.
Etymology of ATTITUDE POLARIZATION
The word "attitude" is derived from the French word "attitude", which means "position, posture, or disposition". It entered the English language in the 17th century and originally referred to the physical posture of a person. Over time, it evolved to also encompass one's mental or psychological disposition.
The term "polarization" is derived from the Latin word "polaris", which means "of or relating to the poles". It originated in the field of physics to describe the characteristic of having opposite or contrasting poles. This concept was later adopted in various fields to denote the division or separation of ideas, opinions, or groups into extreme or contrasting positions.
Therefore, the term "attitude polarization" combines the idea of one's mental or psychological disposition (attitude) with the concept of extreme or contrasting positions or ideas (polarization).
