Towards a Governance Theory of Online Toxicity

• In Event: Disinformation, Extreme Rhetoric and Online Toxicity in Politics

Abstract

This paper delves into the complex issue of online toxicity, examining it through the lens of governance theory. It responds to a critical question: what are the fundamental organizing dynamics of online toxic discourses? The study highlights the varying content moderation practices that inadvertently amplify toxic discourse. We explore the dynamics of online toxicity, identifying aggregation and diffusion as key processes. Aggregation is seen in self-organizing online communities, influential opinion leaders, and strategic political actions, while diffusion refers to the spread of toxic discourses across social networks. The interaction of these two mechanisms is crucial in understanding the various contexts of online toxicity. The paper discusses the challenges of governance in the digital sphere, particularly the balance between freedom of speech and regulating harmful content. We suggest a nuanced framework for online governance, categorized into exclusion, organizing, and norm-setting, each addressing different aspects of the toxicity problem.

Author

• Yibin Fan, Univerisity of Washington