Extreme justifications fuel polarisation
通过在线实验发现，接触他人歧视行为的极端理由会增加参与者自身的歧视行为，尤其在已有许多人歧视的环境中，这种效应更强，且参与者会采纳更极端的理由，形成自我强化的极化动态。
Abstract How does polarisation — as measured by mistreatment of political rivals — spread? In an online experiment, participants choose between splitting financial resources equally or discriminating against a supporter of the opposing political party. We vary the information subjects receive about others’ choices and justifications for discrimination. Exposure to extreme justifications for discrimination increases discrimination — particularly in a polarized environment, when many others are already discriminating — and it leads participants to adopt more extreme justifications themselves. Our findings suggest a self-reinforcing dynamic that may fuel polarisation: Exposure to extreme statements increases polarisation and the prevalence of extreme reasoning.