The human tendency towards a "negativity bias," where negative information and emotions have a stronger impact than positive ones, can significantly influence the dynamics of polarization in online discussions. Negative appeals, whether through attacks on credibility (ethos) or evocation of negative emotions (pathos), may resonate more strongly with individuals, leading to heightened emotional responses and entrenched positions.
In the context of online interactions, the negativity bias can amplify the effects of polarizing rhetoric, reinforcing existing biases and deepening divisions between opposing groups. Negative appeals may trigger defensive reactions, further solidifying group identities and increasing the likelihood of conflict and hostility in discussions.
Understanding the interplay between negativity bias and rhetorical strategies in the corpora can shed light on how these dynamics contribute to polarization. By analyzing the prevalence and impact of negative appeals in relation to ethos and pathos, researchers can explore how cognitive tendencies shape online discourse and influence the escalation of polarization. Strategies to mitigate the effects of negativity bias, such as promoting constructive dialogue and emphasizing positive framing, may also be considered to address polarization in online communities.