A theoretical framework for polarization as the gradual fragmentation of a divided society.

ABSTRACT: We propose a framework integrating insights from computational social science, political, and social psychology to explain how extreme polarization can occur in deeply divided societies. Extreme polarization in a society emerges through a dynamic and complex process where societal, group, and individual factors interact. Dissent at different levels of analysis represents the driver of this process, where societal-level ideological dissent divides society into opposing camps, each with contrasting collective narratives. Within these opposing camps, further dissent leads to the formation of splinter factions and radical cells-sub-groups with increasingly extreme views. At the group level, collective narratives underpinning group identity become more extreme as society fragments. At the indiv

SUBMITTER: Bliuc AM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11327288 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature