  Polarization of opinions has been empirically noted in many online social
network platforms. Traditional models of opinion dynamics, based on statistical
physics principles, do not account for the emergence of polarization and echo
chambers in online network platforms. A recently introduced opinion dynamics
model that incorporates the homophily factor -- the tendency of agents to
connect with those holding similar opinions as their own -- captures
polarization and echo chamber effects. In this work, we provide a non-intrusive
framework for mildly nudging agents in an online community to form random
connections. This is shown to lead to significant depolarization of opinions
and decrease the echo chamber effects. Remarkably, even a mild nudge is seen to
be effective in avoiding polarization, though a large nudge leads to another
undesirable effect, namely, radicalization. Further, we obtain the optimal
nudge factor to avoid the extremes of polarization and radicalization outcomes.

Physics and Society