Archetypes of Polarization on Social Media

The presentation of online hate signals the structure and intensity of societal divisions, but when these seeds of discord are planted, what constitutes a fertile soil to grow and spread? This chapter examines the composition of online affective polarization as a conducive environment that can determine the scale and impact of online hate. We propose that understanding the links between hate speech and affective polarization specifically also provides direction and legitimization for a broader range of counter-strategies, illustrating a response toolbox that includes but is not limited to content moderation and norm reinforcement. The chapter provides a theoretical framework of the archetypes of polarization and their manifesting signals on social media to be used in program design, social media analysis, and further research.