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Investigación K

Vol. 11 No. 2 (2019): Systemic crisis and alternatives

The phenomenon of polarization between ‘Pro Petro’ and ‘Pro Uribe’ in the city of Medellin: Beliefs and emotions mobilized in groups in front of the opponent and their respective political figures.

Submitted
May 27, 2020
Published
2019-12-29

Abstract

This article addresses reactive devaluation processes, which are based on collective emotional orientations and the delegitimization of the opponent, which collects social beliefs about the enemy, within the framework of polarization, which has developed in Colombia, particularly since the so-called plebiscite for peace (2016) and the 2018 presidential election. A mixed methodology (qualitative and quantitative) was used through a descriptive frequency study and content analysis with participants, who recognized themselves as ‘Pro Petro’ and ‘Pro Uribe.’ Dynamics of rejection of the discourse of the opposing political leader were identified, by arguing reasons, which were based on social beliefs and emotional orientation, previously built on distrust and displeasure in relation to that political figure. This situation shows how polarization reduces spaces for dialogue, conversation, discussion, and democratic debate in Colombia, by becoming a psychosocial barrier to peacebuilding and reconciliation.

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