The Role of Selective Exposure in Shaping Public Perception of Political Information: An Empirical Study

In the post-truth era, selective exposure to political information significantly influences public perception, reinforcing ideological polarization. This study examines the extent to which individuals engage with diverse political perspectives and the psychological and algorithmic mechanisms that shape selective exposure. Using a quantitative cross-sectional survey conducted in Jammu and Kashmir, the study analyzes the relationship between media consumption patterns, political discussions, and resistance to contradictory viewpoints. The findings confirm that frequent exposure to political information correlates with higher rejection of opposing views, reinforcing cognitive dissonance and confirmation bias. Moreover, self-reported efforts to diversify media consumption did not align with actual exposure, indicating performative rather than substantive diversification. These results underscore the role of social and digital media in deepening ideological divides, highlighting the need for interventions that promote genuine exposure to diverse perspectives.