Rethinking Political Extremism: The Role Of In-Group Perceptions
Reducing political extremism and violence in the United States and globally may require a shift in our understanding of polarization, suggests a recent study from the University of Toronto. Traditionally, research has focused on 'out-group meta-perceptions', how one political group believes they are perceived by their opponents. For instance, how Republicans think Democrats view them.
However, Spike Lee, an associate professor at the Rotman School of Management, believes this only tells part of the story. He notes that people often exaggerate how negatively they think the other side views them.
In a groundbreaking study, Lee and his students discovered that perceptions within one's own political group have a greater influence on polarization and support for political violence. Specifically, those who believe their own party holds extreme views, even if falsely, are more prone to endorse violence against opposing groups.
This challenges existing views as they found that concerns about how the 'other side' perceives one's party do not directly influence violence. According to Lee, 'If people think, "Our side really hates the other side," it strongly predicts political violence.'
At a time when politics increasingly intertwine with personal identity, these in-group dynamics are particularly powerful. People are more motivated by the desire to belong to a social network than the desire to oppose others.
Lee argues that while facts may not resolve every political disagreement, they can reduce violence. Correcting misconceptions about inter-group feelings can significantly decrease polarization. For example, showing people actual survey data that counter their exaggerated beliefs about opposition intensity can ease partisan tensions.
Social media further complicates matters by amplifying extreme voices and distorting perceptions of majority beliefs. Dispelling these myths could substantially impact political relations.
Lee also suggests uniting people around a common cause as a means to combat extremism. He cites the recent surge in Canadian unity during President Donald Trump’s threats against Canada’s sovereignty as an example of overcoming divisions through a shared vision.