How to fight digital hate

 

Social media can be powerful. It can also be a place of hate, prejudice and hurtful comments. You can combat that using a few simple rules. Try it next time you see online hate.

 

1. DON’T reply to negative comments.

It’s tempting. But all it does is make these comments more popular to social media algorithms. “Don’t feed the trolls” means just that – don’t make the nasty comments more relevant by replying to them.

 

2. Start new comment threads with positive comments.

If you do need to refute something, instead of replying, start a new comment thread that explains it well.

Make sure you start in a positive way, for example, DON’T start with  “People in Calais are not economic migrants because…..”  instead try  “ There is so much evidence that people in Calais are genuine refugees….”

 

3. If you are short of time just go through and ‘like’ all the positive comments.

This takes seconds and makes a real difference.

 

4. Remember there are a LOT of fake profiles out there.

These are not real people. These bots are created to spread misinformation or hate speech – so don’t let them get to you.

 

5. Don’t let it get you down

If you start to feel disheartened, take a break, and think of all the thousands of supportive voices like yours out there. Together we can all stay positive.

 

Spread love, not hate!

#PostTruth #Misinformation #DigitalManipulation