The Moral Polarization Scale (MPS)

We introduce the Moral Polarization Scale (MPS), a new instrument for measuring moral dimensions of polarization. Grounded in theories of moral conviction and intergroup conflict, the MPS captures moral polarization as a multifaceted construct that integrates cognitive, emotional, and behavioral dimensions, describing how people perceive opposing opinions and groups as morally deviant or illegitimate. We developed the scale in a pilot and three studies on the polarized issue of migration in Germany. Exploratory and confirmatory analyses identified eight factors – moral threat, dehumanization, moral inclusion, outgroup homogeneity, ingroup moral superiority, preferred distance, moral indignation, and silence ingroup. The scale showed strong reliability and construct validity, with most factors correlating as expected with dogmatism, empathy, and zero-sum thinking. Notably, moral inclusion showed unexpected patterns, suggesting a distinct attitudinal dimension. The MPS offers a nuanced tool for measuring moral polarization with potential applications in monitoring polarization and evaluating depolarization strategies.