Small Talk, Big Impact: Overcoming Polarization through Informal Information-Sharing in Third Places

Lanier, Amy

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/132972 Copy

Description

Title

Small Talk, Big Impact: Overcoming Polarization through Informal Information-Sharing in Third Places

Author(s)

Lanier, Amy

Issue Date

2026-03-12

Keyword(s)

• Information grounds
• Proximity
• Third places
• Social ties
• Polarization

Abstract

In a divided society, a failure to communicate can lead to social exclusion and mistrust of the Other. This study explored how informal information-sharing in third places can impact communities by fostering social connection and deepening individuals’ sense of belonging within communities. Fisher’s information grounds theory, Granovetter’s theory of the strength of weak ties, and Oldenburg’s concept of third places were applied to explore the information flow in a rural coffee shop located in a small Texas town experiencing rapid urbanization. This research was conducted using autoethnographic case study, and data was obtained through semi-structured interviews and participant observation. The Bonnici and O’Connor proximity model was applied to represent the impact of proximity amid information flowing in many directions. Findings showed that informal information-sharing like chit-chat and gossip yielded important social ties and that the presence of key actors within the information ground drove the information flow to increase social tie strength. The hospitality shown in a common ground environment led to meaningful social connection, even between individuals with starkly opposing perspectives. This research may initiate broader conversations about how common ground atmospheres can be fostered to promote social cohesion, not just locally but across the nation and world.

Publisher

iSchools

Series/Report Name or Number

iConference 2026 Proceedings

Type of Resource

Other

Genre of Resource

Conference Poster

Language

eng

Permalink

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/132972

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2026 is held by Amy Lanier. Copyright permissions, when appropriate, must be obtained directly from the authors.

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