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Vortragende Person/Vortragende Personen:
Christoph Schottmüller, University Cologne / Koautor Ole Jann, Nuffield College, Oxford

Why do people voluntarily forgo information by sorting into ``echo chambers''? We argue that such behavior is rational if differences in preferences interfere with the exchange of information. Instead of curtailing the information available to individuals, segregation into small groups can expand it. We show that separation into echo chambers can be efficient and desirable, and individuals may even rationally choose to completely isolate themselves. Polarization, uncertainty and mistrust all increase the usefulness and appeal of echo chambers.