How polarization feeds the flame of attitude moralization over time: A four-wave longitudinal multilevel examination in the 2020 US election context
Chantal D’Amore (University of Groningen)
Attitude moralization (i.e., when attitudes on specific topics become connected to fundamental beliefs about “right” versus “wrong”) has major implications as it can infuse political conflict with moral meaning. While previous research identified situational triggers and basic psychological mechanisms for moralization—such as perceived dyadic (intentional) harm in outgroup actions and strong emotional responses—little is known about how the structural context of polarization may feed the flame of moralization within individuals over time. We hypothesize that experiencing increased polarization at two different levels (i.e., in society and in terms of a homogeneous network) over time strengthens individuals’ moralization of specific attitudes over time, because each strengthens subjective perceptions of dyadic harm and negative moral emotions in response to the political outgroup. We tested these predictions by conducting a 4-wave (4-month) longitudinal study across the US 2020 election among Biden-supporters (Sample 1; N=1236) and Trump-supporters (Sample 2; N=617) and found support across samples and topics (i.e., mask-wearing, Climate Agreement, Supreme Court Justice). Implications about how polarization feeds the flame of moralization are discussed.
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