Determinants of Hate Speech on Social Media: A Content Analysis on SNS Users in Northern Part of Bangladesh

Authors/ Publisher: Md. Nazrul Islam, PhD

Abstract:

This study was undertaken to analyze the determinants of hate speech on social media so that an overall picture may portray regarding the hate posts and comments surrounding northern parts of Bangladesh. A quantitative and qualitative discussion was done to understand research questions about what the determining factors of derogatory words are the users use in social media and how we can fight for it. Data were collected through a content analysis utilizing the search bar of Facebook. Specific hate post, words, comments and contents were selected by prior observation and pilot study.  Data were analyzed by frequency distribution, descriptive analysis and qualitative analysis and presented in a descriptive way of writing. The findings showed that the most important determinant of using derogatory words is personal conflict. The other causes are political polarization, religious bigotry and patriarchal mentality. The study suggests target group-oriented awareness programmes, media and information literacy programmes and developer’s content moderation system to fight for these social problems.

Key words: Hate Speech; Social Media; Determinant; Northern Part; Content Analysis