Technological seduction and self-radicalization

Alfano, M., Carter, J. A. and Cheong, M. (2018) Technological seduction and self-radicalization. Journal of the American Philosophical Association, 4(3), pp. 298-322. (doi: 10.1017/apa.2018.27)

[img]
Preview
Text
165209.pdf - Accepted Version

1MB

Abstract

Many scholars agree that the Internet plays a pivotal role in self-radicalization, which can lead to behaviors ranging from lone-wolf terrorism to participation in white nationalist rallies to mundane bigotry and voting for extremist candidates. However, the mechanisms by which the Internet facilitates self-radicalization are disputed; some fault the individuals who end up self-radicalized, while others lay the blame on the technology itself. In this paper, we explore the role played by technological design decisions in online self-radicalization in its myriad guises, encompassing extreme as well as more mundane forms. We begin by characterizing the phenomenon of technological seduction. Next, we distinguish between top-down seduction and bottom-up seduction. We then situate both forms of technological seduction within the theoretical model of dynamical systems theory. We conclude by articulating strategies for combatting online self-radicalization.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Carter, Professor J Adam
Authors: Alfano, M., Carter, J. A., and Cheong, M.
Subjects:B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > B Philosophy (General)
College/School:College of Arts & Humanities > School of Humanities > Philosophy
Journal Name:Journal of the American Philosophical Association
Publisher:Cambridge University Press
ISSN:2053-4477
ISSN (Online):2053-4485
Published Online:20 December 2018
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2018 American Philosophical Association
First Published:First published in Journal of the American Philosophical Association 4(3):298-322
Publisher Policy:Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record