#3 Promoting tolerance in online spaces

Promoting tolerance in online spaces

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    Anyone who has had to partake in online discourse knows it's challenging to have productive conversations online. In online environments, constructive discussions are rough because individuals rarely face ideas that challenge their views, making them more unsusceptible to alternative viewpoints. This is how most algorithms are built to maximize user engagement. They track user behavior to choose what content appears on their feed. 

We can get easily caught up in "hugboxes" (an environment that reinforces a limited set of ideas online) that give us a lack of exposure to other ideologies. In online communities, we are typically surrounded by opinions that align with our own. If someone’s feed is filled with messages of tolerance and inclusivity, they are more likely to develop a similar mindset. However, if exposed to prejudiced and intolerant opinions, their perception of various groups may become different, creating division. This can also discourage people from seeking exposure to opposing perspectives on their own time. That is part of having a lack of self-governing. 

In face-to-face conversations, you can see the other's facial expressions and read their body language. Social cues are essential in compassion and understanding. They remind us that we are talking to an individual with feelings like ours. Online exchanges prevent you from noticing social cues. This dehumanization reduces empathy, making it more likely for someone to act in ways they wouldn’t in a face-to-face, such as being disrespectful, or dismissive. When people do not have to worry about the real-world implications of their actions, it's much easier for them to resort to negativity rather than building an understanding. 

Anyone who has spent time on social media consuming political content knows how toxic the discussions can become. With the upcoming election, the internet has become a hotspot for negativity and intolerance. Platforms like Facebook and YouTube have contributed to the spread of misinformation and fake news. Since these platforms prioritize engagement, misleading content spreads quickly, distorting public opinion and furthering the spread of false information. Promoting tolerance means creating environments where respectful, civil discourse is the norm, and social media platforms can implement features to encourage more thoughtful discussions.

Using Social Learning Theory, platforms could shape how online discourse is handled by adjusting algorithms to emphasize posts that model civil conversations. According to the theory, people tend to mimic the actions of those who they view as influencers; whether that's celebrities, friends, or family members. Behavior is more likely to be repeated when it’s rewarded. Platforms could incentivize influencers by recognizing and rewarding tolerant behavior, such as awarding profile badges for constructive discourse. People love to receive medals and trophies, virtual recognition can provide that same sense of accomplishment.

I’ve experienced both sides of this dynamic. On one hand, social media has enabled me to connect with various opinions and understand their views. I’ve been exposed to ideas and viewpoints I might not have encountered otherwise, helping me expand my thinking. There are many occasions where I have changed my mind about something due to a post or conversation I've had. On the other hand, I’ve also seen how quickly negativity can spread. When a celebrity gets "canceled" suddenly the one mistake they made turns into them being the worst person in the world. The same platforms, such as TikTok and Instagram, that encourage connection can also promote intolerance. This makes it harder to have meaningful conversations with people you would never get the chance to hear from face-to-face.

You can't force people to be tolerant or control what they say online. Social media flourishes on engagement, and unfortunately, negativity often gets more clicks than positivity. To put it simply, positivity is boring. Public discourse is heavily promoted on these platforms, but this can be changed. If social media platforms make an effort to prioritize civil discourse and we make it a point to commit to engaging in more constructive conversations, we can help create a healthier online environment. People must be able to voice their opinions on simple matters without being criticized. Fostering an environment of tolerance is the first step. By promoting more respectful dialogue, we can make online communities more welcoming for everyone, where people can speak their minds without fear of backlash. That all starts with tolerance.