Work

Agent-based moral rhetoric simulation to reduce political polarization

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Rising US polarization in recent years has negatively impacted many friend and family relationships. To determine the best moral strategies for facilitating cross-party communication, we create an agent-based simulation underpinned by Moral Foundations Theory to model small-group moral conversations where the majority of agents align with either liberal or conservative views. We find, contrary to what moral re-framing research has assumed, that loyalty may be the best moral foundation for facilitating cross-party communication. More research is needed to understand the depolarizing effects of moral arguments in group settings.

Source: Computational and Mathematical Organization Theory

DOI: 10.1007/s10588-025-09401-9

Authors: Evan M. Williams, Kathleen M. Carley

Institution: Carnegie Mellon University

Language: English

Topic: Opinion Dynamics and Social Influence

Subfield: Statistical and Nonlinear Physics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,990