The members of a residents' welfare association in Lucknow already favour a ban on loud firecrackers in their colony. After an hour of discussion among themselves, they vote for a total ban with heavy fines. Consider the following statements about why their view became stronger:
(A) They heard newer arguments from like-minded members that favoured the view they already held.
(B) They came to see the like-minded members as their ingroup, identified with it and began showing conformity.
(C) No member expressed a dissenting opinion, believing it would undermine the cohesion of the group.
(D) They felt less responsible for the final decision, as their individual views would not be evaluated.
How many of the above statements are reasons for group polarisation?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Only two
(A) They heard newer arguments from like-minded members that favoured the view they already held. — Correct. Among like-minded people, members hear newer arguments that favour their own view. This makes them more firmly in favour of the ban.
(B) They came to see the like-minded members as their ingroup, identified with it and began showing conformity. — Correct. People with similar views are seen as the ingroup. Members identify with it, conform, and so their views become stronger.
(C) No member expressed a dissenting opinion, believing it would undermine the cohesion of the group. — Incorrect. Staying quiet to protect group cohesion describes groupthink, where the group shows an appearance of unanimous agreement.
(D) They felt less responsible for the final decision, as their individual views would not be evaluated. — Incorrect. Feeling less responsible because one's own part is not evaluated is a cause of social loafing. Polarisation comes from newer arguments, a bandwagon effect and ingroup identity.
NCERT (2026-27): “Key Terms … “• When you find people having similar views, you are likely to perceive them as ingroup. You start identifying with the group, begin showing conformity, and as a consequence your views become strengthened.” |