Hate speech dichotomy in X. Polarization of tweets and comments on climate change and youth.

Abstract

Phenomena such as the climate crisis, climate change and extreme weather events such as the DANA that occurred in Valencia (Spain) have become focal points of public discussion in X. The present study aims to examine the role of these topics in the proliferation of hate speech and violent messages concerning mentions and representations of young people in these conversations. A quantitative and qualitative content analysis of 1,648 tweets and 15,625 comments was conducted. The findings indicate a duality in the discursive dynamics between tweets and comments. Tweets exhibited a predominantly moderate tone, with low levels of aggressiveness and hate speech, highlighting the role of young people in helping those affected by the DANA weather phenomenon. Conversely, comments focus on the climate catastrophe but ignore the young people. They has become increasingly characterized by insults, mockery, and hate speech, comprising over fifty per cent of the digital discourse. Insults are consolidated as the predominant form of discourse. Hate speech is directed towards politicians who are perceived as failing to manage state affairs, immigrants who are blamed for rising crime and social inequalities, and the media and journalists whose credibility and professionalism are being questioned. This underscores social media's need to assume active responsibility for implementing mechanisms to reduce hate speech and violent messages, ensuring more respectful digital environments.