The Us-versus-Them Trap
The Hook
Team rivalry, political identity, and fan communities
How the Tactic Works
Group identity becomes tied to antagonism toward outsiders.
How AI / Algorithms May Amplify It
Audience targeting may use declared or inferred interests, subject to platform rules.
How to Recognize It
I feel moral or intellectual superiority simply because of my group.
What It May Touch
Separateness, superiority, contempt, pride, resentment, fear of exclusion, identity dependence, hostility
Possible Buried Belief
“We are better than they are.”