Online Incivility, Cyberbalkanization, and the Dynamics of Opinion Polarization During and After a Mass Protest Event

Authors

  • Francis L.F. Lee The Chinese University of Hong Kong
  • Hai Liang The Chinese University of Hong Kong
  • Gary K. Y. Tang The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong

Keywords:

incivility, swearing, cyberbalkanization, opinion polarization, political context

Abstract

This study is concerned with the role of persistent online incivility in the dynamics of public opinion polarization. It examines how cyberbalkanization, contentiousness of the political context, online incivility, and opinion polarization at the collective level relate to each other. Focusing on Hong Kong and drawing upon data from different sources, the analysis shows that online incivility—operationalized as the use of foul language—grew as volume of political discussions and levels of cyberbalkanization increased. Incivility led to higher levels of opinion polarization. Online incivility, therefore, can be a mediating mechanism through which the political context and the phenomenon of cyberbalkanization exert influence on polarization.

Author Biographies

Francis L.F. Lee, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Professor, School of Journalism and Communication, Chinese University of Hong Kong. Tel: 852-3943-1990

Hai Liang, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Assistant Professor, School of Journalism and Communication, Chinese University of Hong Kong. Tel: 852-3943-7711

Gary K. Y. Tang, The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong

Lecturer, Department of Social Science, Hang Seng University. Tel: 852-3963-5446

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Published

2019-09-22

Issue

Vol. 13 (2019)

Section

Articles

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