Choose Sides by Company

People often decide their stance on contested foreign issues less on argument quality than on the social identities of who defends or attacks a side. In polarized debates, the visible associates and platforms (religious tours, influencers, media hosts) act as heuristics that steer ordinary citizens toward durable political alignments. — Recognizing the 'company test' reframes persuasion: shifting alliances or reframing who endorses a position may matter more than supplying more facts or policy arguments.