Online segregation

Date and country of first publication^[1]

2016
United States

Definition

Online segregation refers to the practice of dividing internet users into separate communities or platforms based on their race, gender, or other characteristics. This can occur through various means, such as online forums or social media platforms that cater exclusively to certain groups.

While the internet has the potential to connect people from diverse backgrounds and foster cross-cultural understanding, online segregation can hinder this process by creating echo chambers and reinforcing existing social divisions. It can lead to the formation of isolated online communities that only interact with people who share similar beliefs, resulting in limited exposure to different perspectives and ideas.

Online segregation can also contribute to the spread of misinformation and hate speech, as individuals within segregated communities may reinforce and amplify extreme views without being exposed to counterarguments or alternative viewpoints. This can further polarize online discussions and exacerbate societal divisions.

It is important to promote inclusivity and diversity in online spaces in order to foster meaningful dialogue and understanding among people from different backgrounds. This can be achieved by encouraging collaboration and interaction across various online platforms, promoting digital literacy and critical thinking skills, and implementing policies that discourage online segregation and support a more inclusive internet experience for all users.

References

Notes

↑ Date and country of first publication as informed by the Scopus database (December 2023).

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