Why Kamala Fandom is Rocking the Internet – and the Trump Assassination Isn't
Jul 21, 2024
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Terrorism scholar J.M. Berger delves into the psychology of violent extremists and the role of the internet in their actions. The episode also discusses the online fandom around Vice President Kamala Harris and the unique support she has garnered, including the rise of the Coconut Coalition advocating for her presidency.
Social media algorithms fuel extremism by promoting engaging content.
Extremist violence stems from conflicts between in-group and out-group beliefs.
Conspiracy theories justify hostile actions by demonizing the out-group.
Deep dives
Social Media's Impact on Extremism
Social media acts as a consensus calculator, reinforcing in-group beliefs over out-group views. Algorithms can push individuals towards more extreme views by promoting engaging content. These platforms amplify uncertainty and the need for reassurance, fueling extremism.
Crisis-Solution Construct in Extremism
Extremism arises when in-group consensus conflicts with an out-group consensus, prompting hostile actions. Individuals feel compelled to act more aggressively if they believe they are not doing enough to protect their in-group, escalating towards violence.
The Role of Conspiracies in Extremism
Conspiracy theories play a significant role in creating an extremist identity. By demonizing the out-group as powerful yet unworthy, these narratives justify hostile actions against them.
Social Identity Theory in Extremist Violence
Social identity theory explains intergroup conflict, where individuals align with an in-group and perceive the out-group as adversaries. Extremist violence emerges when individuals feel their in-group survival is inseparable from hostile acts against the out-group.
Response to Trump Assassination Attempt Online
Following the Trump assassination attempt, the far-right initially reacted with calls to action and civil war narratives. However, the lack of severe consequences for Trump led to a relatively subdued online response, with some groups viewing it as a confirmation of existing beliefs without a significant escalation.
We still don’t know why a 20-year-old from Pennsylvania opened fire on Trump last weekend. Lone shooters whose paths from normalcy to vigilantism seem esoteric, obscure, or perverse have become a familiar pattern—but there’s actually a lot we do understand about the origins of political violence. Max sits down with terrorism scholar J.M. Berger to understand the psychology of violent extremists and what role the internet plays in their decision to act. But first! Max is joined by the New Yorker’s Jessica Winter to talk about the online fandom around Vice President Kamala Harris and the true meaning of the coconut emoji.
For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.
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