ABSTRACT
In this chapter the possibilities of depolarizing political discourse in an era in which polarization has become endemic are discussed. While political and communication research overwhelmingly emphasizes the polarizing effects of online political discourse, we argue that the use of digital communication is also able to generate depolarizing political discourse.
Theories of human nature and conflict, as well as social theory concerning conflict and cooperation, are applied. Against this background, the potential role that digital communication could play in depolarization of political discourse is explored. Additionally, several specific theories explaining the potential role that online communication might play in depolarization are discussed, such as social identity theory, structuration theory, framing theory and network theory.
No assumptions of deterministic effects of communication technology are made and no technological fixes for human conflict are proposed. Instead, a combination of organizational, social and technical practices are recommended as guidelines likely to keep political discourse civil and collaborative as opposed to polarized and confrontational.
