Answer:
The correct answer is: Comparison.
Explanation:
Social comparison can be understood as the theory that states that individuals construct and determine their social value depending on how they pileup with others.
This theory was proposed by Leo Festinger and he stated that the individuals who are constantly comparing themselves to others and checking if the others approved or disproved their opinions and views tend to experience more feelings of sadness than those who doesn't.
In this particular case, William went to make sure that his political beliefs were shared and supported by others, and that he could feel confident that his positions were legitimate.
This shows the process of social comparison.