Persuasion in Parallel: How Information Changes Minds about Politics

Persuasion in Parallel challenges the dominant view that persuasive information can backfire by showing that individuals change their minds in response to information, with partisans on either side of the political aisle updating their views roughly in parallel. This book suggests that even messages we don't like can move us in the right direction.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2023
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

A compelling exploration into the dynamic realm of political attitudes and their transformation in response to information. Contrary to popular belief, Persuasion in Parallel reveals that individuals are capable of altering their perspectives, even when they hold differing political beliefs. This groundbreaking book challenges the prevailing notion that persuasive information can often backfire, as people are often driven to reason against information they dislike. Drawing upon extensive evidence from a series of randomized controlled trials, the book compellingly demonstrates that the backfire response is remarkably rare or nonexistent. Instead, it reveals that most people tend to update their views in the direction of new information, albeit to varying degrees.

The profound political implications of this research suggest that there is still hope for meaningful dialogue and progress even when faced with messages that may initially evoke strong opposition. The book underscores the importance of understanding the mechanisms that drive people's beliefs and attitudes, as well as the potential for persuasion to bridge divides and promote understanding.

In conclusion, Persuasion in Parallel offers a groundbreaking perspective on the dynamics of political change and provides valuable insights into the power of information in shaping public opinion. By challenging the notion of a polarized political landscape and demonstrating the potential for individuals to update their views in response to new information, this book offers a roadmap for promoting more informed and productive political discourse.

Dimension: 229 x 152 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226821825