argument from cognitive hygiene

Yet another side to the popularity of what I call Tumblr holism. The ideas behind this argument have been known as the "Hicklin test", and are shared by radfems and palaeoconservatives:

1. People get large portions of their political views from the media.
2. Thus the media can substantially alter your political views.
3. Thus shun the Other Side's media.


4. Similarly, your peers subconsciously determine your worldview.
5. Thus contact with bad people can corrupt you.
6. Thus shun contact with bad people.

(Note that, if sound, obeying this argument has the unfortunate effect of depriving racist people of the enlightening company of non-racists.)