Online harms are a widespread concern. People may be stigmatised, excluded or abused when connecting across significant divides in their views and identities, and discussing contentious subjects. Online social networks enable these connections to an extent not possible before.
So how can we help ensure our interactions online are healthy and inclusive, especially when discussing difficult subjects subjects such as religion, science and LGBTQ+ lives?
My research uses computer coding including machine learning to analyse broad trends and patterns, allowing us to see what helps encourage healthy interactions online.
I focus on intersections where people have discussed mainstream religion alongside science, LGBTQ+ lives or other minority groups. This can bring conflict, but it does not always, and fostering inclusivity need not require lots of top down control – there are subtle things people can do to encourage healthy discussions. I will promote my findings and add to discussions about improving outcomes when people engage online about contentious subjects, which may include aspects of their very identity and ways of understanding the world.
Tim Kinnear 