Political systems and media landscapes have shifted toward rewarding extreme positions.

In many countries, political parties and media outlets have moved to the edges of the spectrum to energize their base and capture attention. This shift is partly driven by the fragmentation of traditional media and the rise of niche outlets that cater to specific audiences. Politicians who take strong, uncompromising stances often gain more visibility and support than moderates. This dynamic encourages polarization by making compromise less attractive and increasing the stakes of political conflict.