Ingroups & Outrage: Narratives, Digital Surrogate Networks & Far-Right Parties

• In Event: The Crisis of Liberal Democracy: Connective Action & the Rise of the Far-Right

Abstract

This paper investigates the role of communicative ties and digital surrogate networks in the radicalization of right-wing parties, focusing on the case of Germany's Alternative für Deutschland (AfD). It argues that these networks, facilitated through social media and digital technologies, provide connective ties and enable the creation of ideologically like-minded communities. These form and mobilize around specific political narratives or shared affective responses. While initially providing parties with potential supporters and promoting agenda items, these networks can inadvertently lead to uncontrollable radicalization and ideological lock-in. This study contributes to the understanding of how digital connectivity, narratives, and affect contribute to ongoing radicalization processes on the political right, offering a novel perspective on contemporary right-wing politics, which takes institutional as well as communication-based factors into account.

Authors

• Curd Benjamin Knüpfer, University of Southern Denmark

• Ulrike Klinger, European University Viadrina