Dr Malini Yugendran
Auckland, January 23, 2023
Violent rhetoric and “keyboard warriors” have become increasingly prevalent in the digital age. Because of the anonymity and ‘invisibility’ of the internet, it is easier than ever before for individuals to say things they would not often say in person. The inconspicuousness of the web has caused an increase in bullying and violent threats.
Violent Rhetoric against Jacinda Ardern
Departing Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has been subjected to vitriol, especially after the pandemic lockdowns. RNZ reported that threats against Ms Ardern tripled between 2020 and 2022. At least eight cases have been filed as a result of the threats she received.
According to political scientist and former intelligence worker Paul Buchanan, the keyboard warriors who threatened Ms Ardern include anti-vaxxers and conspiracy theorists. He told Stuff, “Unfortunately we are going to see that Jacinda Ardern is going to need at least for the foreseeable year or so, 24-hour protection, even though she has stepped down.”
The mindset of keyboard warriors
Manjusha Mane, Clinical Lead and Mindfulness Educator with Tamaki Health told Indian Newslink, “Often, they [perpetrators] are projecting their own experiences of abuse or ill-treatment. They lack compassion and have a sense of superiority and entitlement. Their motivation is negative social rewards and borders on deriving sadistic pleasure by hurting others.”
Ms Mane said that victims can be impacted immensely and suffer from depression, anxiety and even insomnia as a result of the hate they face. She said, “victims may isolate themselves and oscillate between helplessness and anger.”
“Some victims develop low self-esteem and lose their confidence, while others could develop thoughts of self-harm or suicidal ideation. There are several cases where victims of trolling have committed suicide,” Ms Mane said.
Anonymity a shield
One of the biggest problems with violent and negative rhetoric is that it can quickly spiral out of control. Many thousands, if not millions, of people, can view a single remark or post, and it only takes a small number of like-minded people to amp up the message and convert it into a full-fledged movement. This may be especially dangerous when discussing subjects like politics or social justice, where feelings are already running high.
Another issue with violent rhetoric is that it can be difficult to hold people accountable for their words.
Anonymity allows people to say whatever they want without fear of repercussions, and even when someone is identified, the legal system can be slow to act. This can create a sense of impunity among keyboard warriors, who feel free to say whatever they want without consequences.
Victim care
Ms Mane recommends that victims should learn to ignore negativity. She requests that victims do not engage the trollers and keyboard warriors and instead block them from their social media sites. She recommends that victims surround themselves with people who value them and are supportive. She suggests seeking counselling if need be.
Diverse strategy against vitriol
One strategy is to create more dependable systems for managing content online.
Another potential is the creation of cutting-edge technology, such as machine learning algorithms that can instantly identify and delete violent or hateful content, together with social media corporations exercising more assertive moderation may help control online violence.
Another strategy is to persuade internet users to act more responsibly. This might entail teaching people about the dangers of using abusive language online and the need of displaying empathy and respect.
Developing new technologies that make it harder for people to conceal their identity online is another strategy whereby those who post offensive things can be held accountable.
Ultimately, the problem of violent rhetoric and keyboard warriors is a complex one that will require a multifaceted approach that coalesces efforts of technology companies, social media corporations, government, and individuals to address this issue and create a safer, more respectful online environment.
Dr Malini Yugendran is an Indian Newslink Reporter based in Auckland.
