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Whataboutism

Author

Listed:
  • Kfir Eliaz
  • Ran Spiegler

Abstract

We propose a model of whataboutism -- a rhetorical strategy that deflects criticism by citing similar misconduct that goes uncriticized on the critic's side -- and study its implications for social norms governing offensive speech. In an infinite-horizon psychological game with two rival camps, agents weigh the intrinsic benefit of offensive speech against the risk of condemnation. External criticism can be deflected via an equilibrium-based whataboutism rebuttal. We characterize the unique dynamically stable Psychological Subgame Perfect Equilibrium and show that the availability of whataboutism exacerbates offensive speech, to the extent that civility norms can break down entirely, especially in polarized societies.

Suggested Citation

  • Kfir Eliaz & Ran Spiegler, 2026. "Whataboutism," Papers 2603.08098, arXiv.org, revised Mar 2026.
    • Handle: RePEc:arx:papers:2603.08098
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    References listed on IDEAS

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