Exploring the Contextual Complexities of Violence on Digital Platforms: Intersections, Impacts, and Solutions

Abstract

As social media platforms face increasing complexity, severity, and pervasiveness of violent content, it is of utmost importance for researchers, educators, policymakers, and users alike to regard digital violence as an imminent threat. Indeed, violent content is widely acknowledged as an inseparable element of the continuum of violence, interlinked with various other types and embodiments of harm that transcend the archaic boundaries of online and offline realms. To adequately address the increasingly complex nature of violence on digital platforms, it is paramount to understand how digital platforms may modify and amplify violent behavior and content. The initial step in such efforts is to contextualize violence within its cultural and historical settings. Accordingly, this panel explores digital manifestations of violence as experienced and perceived within specific socio-cultural contexts. The papers presented delve into four case studies from diverse socio-cultural contexts (Colombia, Northern Ireland, Israel/Palestine, and Syria), and touch upon pressing contemporary issues such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, anti-religion protest in Iran, and the recent earthquakes in Syria. These case studies aim to explore the impact and reach of various forms of violence manifested on digital platforms. Panelists unpack ways of inciting, reproducing, expressing, and countering violence, enacted through a wide variety of media practices (such as memes, tweets and viral videos) across various platforms (including TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp). In this panel we seek to build bridges and deepen our understanding of the complex and multifaceted dynamics of digital violence by exploring possible solutions for mitigating its detrimental impact.