
The two conceptualizations of social differentiation seem to be very similar. However, we demonstrate in a new paper that the two differentiation mechanisms lead to different patterns of cultural polarization, radicalization, factionalism, and integration. We also show that they generate these patterns under very different conditions. To this end, we developed an agent-based model that builds on the key assumptions of classical social-influence models supplemented with assumptions about social differentiation, conceptualized as either distancing or striving for uniqueness. This general model allowed us to compare the predictions of the two differentiation models. In closing, we discuss the implications for cultural dynamics in organizations.
This paper was coauthored by Andreas Flache and James Kitts. It appeared in a book called Perspectives on Culture and Agent-based Simulations. Please let me know if you have problems downloading the paper.