Group Polarization

2008-10-13 19:03:00

John Crane wrote:

"Many here will not like this article because it explains the polarization taking place at McCain rallies, but there are general principle here which we can extract and apply to all homogenous groups, so please don't let this be a red herring to you."

See referenced article at: http://www.slate.com/blogs/blogs/bigsort/archive/2008/10/13/extremism-at-mccain-rallies-comes-naturally.aspx

JJ:

Wow, John, If I have ever seen an example of upside down logic, the article you referenced is it. The author says:

"Those at the McCain or Palin rallies who talk about 'hooligans' and 'treason,' who call Barack Obama a 'terrorist,' 'bum,' or 'socialist,' aren't simply responding to speeches from the candidates. They are acting as members of a like-minded group exactly as social psychologists would predict, which is a less-than-comforting thought."

These type of people aren't a part of any "like-minded group." The guy even admits that the group leader (McCain) doesn't think this way. These people represent a vocal minority of a group that does not think alike. Most think like McCain, others do not.

On the other hand, in an Obama rally you do get a group think where all agree with the leader and everyone seems to think alike.

Part of the reason for this Obama screens carefully and you never hear a controversial question about Bill Ayers or something similar because they are not allowed.

On the other hand, McCain doesn't prescreen people for his town halls so you never know what will be said or asked so at least you get a little diversity.

Overall members of the Democratic party have to tow the line or they will be disenfranchised. A maverick like McCain who reaches across party lines does not exist in their party.

Lieberman tried be to just a little like McCain and they basically kicked him out. The same happened with the last Democrat that didn't buy into group think -- Zell Miller.

Look at the voting records of Democrats and Republicans and you'll see that the Republicans will defy party bosses much more than do Democrats.

When this was brought up to a Democrat in an interview the other day she merely said: "That's because Democrats are always right."

That said, there is too much group think everywhere for the Beast is omnipresent in this present world system. It just has a stronger foothold some places than others.