Is There Hope to Gain for the U.S in Terms of Political Polarization?

 

This blog so far has focused on how political polarization is evident online and the reasons/problems associated with it. In the case of finding data, Pew Research Center offers great insight in the study of the correlation of social media and political polarization. The American political polarization situation is truly unique by looking at the Pew Research Center data below. However, the data below could be viewed as a sign of optimism. With the U.S having one of the highest responses that social media has made people more divided shows that the majority of Americans recognize the issue. People understanding the issue leads to possible future steps of open dialogue between different ideologies, allowing for cohesion. The 'in-group' and 'out-group' mentality on the political sides that it has become part of a person's identity such as, what's their political stance? Populist rhetoric from Trump and others on both sides of the aisle is a major reason why people are so divisive over people with opposing viewpoints. Trump's "twitter presidency" had propelled him to the White House, at the cost of even furthering the political polarization in the country. Attacking reporters and politicians was a commonplace rhetorical tool Trump used in office. Since then, politicians have continued the use of attacking each other in a unprofessional manner which leads to why Americans view social media so detrimental to politics with slandering anyone who does not agree with their viewpoint. We as the citizens, should hold our representatives accountable and expect them to work for us in a professional manner, not one that is resemblant to elementary school behaviors. Politicians set the example for the citizens, so it is time for all politicians to hold their positions with respect and dignity which just might in turn do the same for us as a collective society. Overall, I think it is possible for the political societies in America to become less divisive over time, us as the citizens have to control the narrative.

Reference

More Americans see negative political impact of the internet and social media, compared with other countries surveyed | Pew Research Center. (2022, December 5). Pew Research Center’s Global Attitudes Project. https://www.pewresearch.org/global/2022/12/06/social-media-seen-as-mostly-good-for-democracy-across-many-nations-but-u-s-is-a-major-outlier/pg_2022-12-06_online-civic-engagement_0-02/