The “chanification” of white supremacist extremism

Michael Miller Yoder (), David West Brown () and Kathleen M. Carley ()
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Michael Miller Yoder: Carnegie Mellon University
David West Brown: Carnegie Mellon University
Kathleen M. Carley: Carnegie Mellon University

Computational and Mathematical Organization Theory, 2025, vol. 31, issue 3, No 2, 222-235

Abstract: Abstract Much research has focused on the role of the alt-right in pushing far-right narratives into mainstream discourse. In this work, we focus on the alt-right’s effects on extremist narratives themselves. From 2012 to 2017, we find a rise in alt-right, 4chan-like discourse styles across multiple communication platforms known for white supremacist extremism, such as Stormfront. This discourse style incorporates inflammatory insults, irreverent comments, and talk about memes and online “chan” culture itself. A network analysis of one far-right extremist platform suggests that central users adopt and spread this alt-right style. This analysis has implications for understanding influence and change in online white supremacist extremism, as well as the role of style in white supremacist communications. Warning: This paper contains examples of hateful and offensive language.

Keywords: White supremacism; Alt-right; 4chan (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s10588-024-09390-1

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