Polarization

/ˌpoʊ.lɚ.ɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/ noun

Definition

The tendency for group discussion to shift members' opinions toward a more extreme position in the direction they were already leaning.

Etymology

From Latin 'polaris' meaning 'of or near the pole.' Social sense from Moscovici and Zavalloni (1969).

Kelly Says

Group polarization is when talking with like-minded people makes everyone's opinions MORE extreme — moderates become radicals together!

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