Final answer:
The information commons has contributed to increased political polarization and a divergence in the shared view of reality between different political ideologies, as evidenced by polling data and the widening ideological gap between Republicans and Democrats.
Step-by-step explanation:
The effects of the information commons include several notable implications for political beliefs and behaviors. Polling data and political science research have shown multiple impacts on how Americans view politics after events like 9/11 and throughout the evolving media environment. Two key effects that stand out are:
- Political opinions became more polarized: This is reflected in political scientists' observations that partisanship has increased, with more citizens identifying as conservative or liberal rather than moderate. The Pew Research Center found significant differences in responses to value statements over several decades, indicating a deepening ideological rift between Republicans and Democrats.
- People were less likely to have a shared view of reality: This effect is apparent as partisan divides emerge on various issues, including responses to crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where Democrats and Republicans differed significantly in their perceptions of the disease's spread and the necessary government measures.
These effects point to a wider ideological gap and less common ground on key political issues, contrary to the ideas of bipartisan commonality or narrowed differences between the parties.