Author(s): Andrei VLĂDESCU
Publication name: Romanian Intelligence Studies Review
Publisher name: Mihai Viteazul National Intelligence Academy
Publication type: Journal article
Publication date: December 31, 2019
Pagination:
Issue/ Volume: 22/2019
DOI:
Abstract
Hate speech communications, whether expressed through text, image or sound,
convey a two-way message: one to the target and the social group to which it belongs, as
a factor of their minimization and dehumanization, and the second to other supporters
of extremist-aggressive ideologies, to reinforce the sense of belonging to the group and
to a common vision.
An aggressive discourse is all the more dangerous as it is stated by a
charismatic speaker, who addresses a public marked by frustration, in a social or
historical context favorable to violence and who benefits from an influential mean of
dissemination which is unique or the main source of information for the target audience.
Aggressive online speech is an eloquent example of how advanced technologies
bring both opportunities and challenges regarding the need for a balance between
fundamental rights and principles, as is the case between freedom of expression and the
defense of human dignity. The connection of aggressive online discourse with the real
world is difficult to demonstrate through systematic empirical evidence, being less
preferred the study of the dynamics underlying the transfer of energy from words to
overt discrimination, hostile behavior and violent.
The purpose of this study is to identify the social groups most vulnerable to
aggressive public discourse, as a primary stage in constructing an assessment tool which,
based on the vocabulary or the symbolisms used, could determine the affinity of an
individual or a group of persons for radical ideologies close to actionable hate.
Keywords: aggressive speech, discrimination, vulnerable social group,
aggressive public discourse, intolerance.
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