Communications of the ACM
Nmsu Research Shows Technology May Help Speed Political Polarization
A study led by New Mexico State University researchers has found that customizable technology wields a sizable influence on accelerating political polarization in the U.S.
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Customizable technology wields a sizable influence on accelerating political polarization in the U.S., according to a study led by New Mexico State University (NMSU) researchers.
"Customization technology is increasing political selective exposure," says NMSU professor Igor Dolgov. "It's essentially keeping people away from alternative viewpoints."
An initial poll of 600 students in psychology and communication classes at NMSU surveyed their political affiliations and opinions on key issues, and one month later a seemingly unrelated survey asked participants' views of a new online news website. Dolgov notes moderate participants exposed to self-customized or pre-customized content gravitated toward extreme opinions.
"Even if you pre-customize for them and give them the option to get out of that shell they don't get out," he says. "They may seek one or two alternative opinions, but generally they will customize away from alternative opinions."
From Las Cruces Sun-News (NM)
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