Online Radicalization: Containing the Contagion of Conspiracy

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Northern Kentucky University

Abstract

"Eye-catching, fear-inducing headlines connecting online radicalization to real-life violence has many wondering if this problem is a side-effect of nationwide political divisions or simply a growing-pain in the internet’s coming-of-age. Taking an interdisciplinary approach, this research paper aims to address these questions by using the recent rise of QAnon as a case study for understanding radicalization, its history on the internet, the circumstances under which it takes place on an individual basis that can gradually snowball into a larger entity, and the attempts by social media platforms and governmental bodies to legislate the problem. Additionally, by utilizing the focus areas of history, psychology, and political science, this research is intended to offer a broader perspective and education for the public so that preventative action can be achieved one person at a time."

Description

2021 Celebration of Student Research and Creativity presentation

Keywords

Social media and society, QAnon conspiracy theory, Violence in mass media

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