Selective exposure: Exposing a Few Selected Theoretical Aspects

Abstract

Selective exposure is a phenomenon studied by scholars for decades. Its prominence can be explained by certain potential consequences for democratic societies which include polarization and growing support for extreme views.

The media selective exposure approach generated hundreds of publications, however, this growth in new facts and information does not seem to advance much of a paradigmatic consensus on theoretical foundations and practical utility of this line of research.

This article aims at assessing whether the key concepts and models of selective exposure represent a cohesive body of knowledge empowering researchers. It also encourages them to seek new knowledge, and test new links. Researchers can also evaluate whether there are some controversial or not sufficiently explicated elements requiring reassessment.

This article is a modest effort to assess what is really known and agreed upon in such important pillars of any theory such as definitions and models of selective exposure. This piece also suggests which aspects of selective exposure may need further clarification.