Author Type

Undergraduate Student

Date of Award

Spring 4-8-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

July 2026

College Granting Degree

Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Timothy Steigenga

Abstract

Inspired by the events observed in the media pertaining to the Israel-Palestine conflict, my thesis examines whether social media contributes to political polarization through algorithms that create echo chambers, misinformation, and emotionally charged content. I argue that selective social media exposure fosters political polarization as social media users often encounter content that reinforces their pre-existing beliefs, leading to a reluctance in considering alternative viewpoints. Furthermore, the passionate nature of discussions on social media about the Israel-Palestine conflict contributes to polarization, aligning with negative contact theory, which suggests that social and ideological differences can hinder productive conversation and understanding of one another. While contact theory posits that direct interaction between diverse groups can reduce hostility and prejudice, social media instead prioritizes divisive and highengagement content, further entrenching ideological divides.

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