Public policy and consumer social psychology: A review of political polarization and digital platforms

David E. Sprott, T. J. Weber and Kelly D. Martin

Chapter 14 in Handbook of Social Psychology and Consumer Behavior, 2026, pp 190-206 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Our chapter explores the intersection of consumers and public policy within a framework of consumer social psychology. While the marketplace is replete with examples of how humans influence one another in policy-relevant domains, there is remarkably little research regarding how consumers influence one another in these settings. We present a framework that situates public policy and consumer social psychology within the broader context of social welfare. The model is illustrated with two emerging topics in the field and broader society, namely political polarization and digital platforms. We conclude with a summary of how adopting a social psychological vantage point can enlighten policy areas related to, and beyond, the consumer.

Keywords: Public policy; Societal welfare; Social psychology; Marketing; Politics; Digital platforms (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035327591
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