Ideological Polarization Over a China-as-Superpower Mindset: An Exploratory Charting of Belief Systems Among Chinese Internet Users, 2008-2011

International Journal of Communication, 8, 2243–2272.

28 Pages Posted: 15 Mar 2014 Last revised: 16 Aug 2014

See all articles by Angela Xiao Wu

Angela Xiao Wu

New York University (NYU) - Department of Culture and Communication

Date Written: July 6, 2013

Abstract

This study explores ideological polarization among Chinese Internet users by examining both the structure of local belief systems, and temporal changes of opinions. It implements research tools investigating voters’ cognition and behavior in democratic societies, including those concerning Internet use and political polarization. To probe this sensitive terrain, it employs network and relational class analysis to a unique historical dataset — online records of the “Chinese Political Compass” self-assessment (中国政治坐标系测试; 2008-2011). Results demonstrate that the overarching ideological division of the Chinese Internet is split between nationalism and cultural liberalism. Groups of “ideologues” and “agnostics” that differentially contributed to overall rapid polarization were also identified. The study further speculates how, in nondemocratic societies, Internet use may influence people’s political views through different mechanisms.

Keywords: belief system, China, Internet, polarization, public opinion, semantic network, nationalism

Suggested Citation

Wu, Angela Xiao, Ideological Polarization Over a China-as-Superpower Mindset: An Exploratory Charting of Belief Systems Among Chinese Internet Users, 2008-2011 (July 6, 2013). International Journal of Communication, 8, 2243–2272., Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2408639

Angela Xiao Wu (Contact Author)

New York University (NYU) - Department of Culture and Communication ( email )

239 Greene St., 7th Floor
New York, NY 10003-1836
United States

Do you have a job opening that you would like to promote on SSRN?

Paper statistics

Downloads
1,227
Abstract Views
5,983
Rank
27,451
PlumX Metrics