Hate speech, vitriol, threats, and inciting comments: Can we stop it already?

The researcher who studied insults in media found it difficult to locate enough data sixteen years ago. This lack of data signified a positive environment for public discourse at the time. However, the abundance of data on the topic now sixteen years later is evidence of a deteriorating society and potentially unethical discourse.

The question arises whether we should be concerned about this ethically deficient status quo of public discourse or dismiss it as a normal part of a liberal society, also known as democracy. It is clear that change can be achieved when everyone contributes, and every effort helps. The British supermarket chain Tesco popularized the phrase "every little effort, every little attempt, every little... helps."

In today's digital age, social media platforms have democratized public discourse, making it easier for individuals to initiate and disseminate information. This, coupled with the rise of generative technologies, has led to an increase in insults, hate speech, threats, and inciting comments in public discourse. The temptation to engage in such behavior is strong, but it is essential to resist it and strive for a more civilized and ethical society.

Civility must be based on factual arguments, not insults and denigration of people's personalities. Unfortunately, some individuals who should serve as examples in society have become sources of vile insults, particularly to the younger generation. Moreover, the tendency to politicize everything has worsened the situation, leading to a black-and-white perspective where everyone becomes an enemy and destroying them is seen as the only way to stand out.

The act of destroying reputations has become easier, especially when generously bankrolled, and the attention economy fuels information disorder by prioritizing sensationalism and the human tendency to pay closer attention to negativity.