Abstract
SYMLOG, a method and theory of group observation and analysis developed by Bales, is applied to the examination of issue polarization. Using a “phantom other” technique, the locations in SYMLOG's three‐space of values for polar stands on ten controversial issues were measured. There was a high rate of agreement on these locations despite great diversity of opinion on the issues themselves. Subjectivity in locations is explained by Lewin's theory of vectors of attraction and repulsion. Individuals tend to draw toward their global favored (PRO) locations those stands with which they agree. For example, one who opposes abortion on demand will draw toward his or her PRO location the image of “opposes abortion on demand.” Subjectivity in issue polarization seems to be organized around attraction to and repulsion from the PRO location without regard to the individual's global opposed (CON) location.
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