Ananya Chaure
Symbiosis School for Liberal Arts
Symbiosis International (Deemed University)

Cite This Source

Chaure, A. (2024). The unfortunate alliance of partisan politics and resentful relationships. Confluence: Journal for Interdisciplinary Studies, Volume VII-VIII, 81-106. 

Abstract

Discourse on the polarisation in Indian politics has been increasing over the years, fuelled by the digital age. However, the subsequent effect of this polarisation upon relationships remains largely unexplored. There is a lack of research upon the impact of divisive political views upon relationships, and family dynamics in particular. This paper bridges that gap by studying the effect of such factors in the Indian setting, lending support to the fact that Confirmation Bias, Media Exposure, Sensationalization and Fake News create and concretise polarising views; and in turn examines the impact of such views on familial relationships. The knowledge gained from this investigation advances our understanding of the social ramifications of media-driven political divisiveness in India. The results point to a significant relationship between the rise of divisive political viewpoints and media saturation, particularly in the digital sphere. Furthermore, the paper critically analyses individuals’ perception of opposing political views within the family and inter-generational differences regarding the same.

Keywords: media exposure, polarised politics, familial relationships, confirmation bias, echo chambers, inter-generational differences, Indian subcontinent