On the Factors of Political Radicalization in Network Communication through «Echo Chambers»

The article identifies the factors of political radicalization in the Internet, mediated by the "echo chamber" phenomenon. It is pointed out that this type of communication not only impoverishes the cognitive repertoire of communication necessary for the successful functioning of democracy, but also leads to the strengthening of extreme political attitudes. Based on the work of C. R. Sunstein, K.H. Jamieson, J.N. Cappella, E. Pariser, S. Hegelich and others, the authors emphasize the role of "filter bubbles" and "social bots" in the polarization of group opinions. In particular, it is noted that the growing diversity of information sources allows network actors to easily find their circle of communication without entering into a serious dialogue with dissenters. This is facilitated by "homophilous sorting", when the priority is given to information that is consistent with the established values and stereotypes, and everything that contradicts them, is rejected. The article emphasizes that the most important factor in the radicalization of participants in modern Internet communication is the progressing manipulation of public communication through the mass distribution of fakes and "social bots". This is accompanied by a simulation of Internet public discussions, from which the dialogical element disappears, but the emotional-confrontational component is strengthened. As a result, the group polarization in the network communication
reveals a tendency to archaization, when the network actors who have strayed into the "tribes of like-minded people" share even more radical positions after the discussion than before.