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A Critical Analysis: Key Strategies of Far-Right Online Visual Propaganda

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Applications for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Forensics in National Security

Abstract

The approach from the far-right in producing and disseminating visual propaganda has allowed for a persistent online presence to be maintained, despite efforts to remove extremist and hateful content. This chapter will critically explore the academic literature which considers how far-right actors are taking advantages of the affordances of online communication routes to spread visual propaganda. Three key strategies which emerge from the literature will be critically discussed to understand the role of visual imagery in facilitating and maintaining far-right online discourse. Firstly, the use of imagery to other out-groups through boundary construction will be considered. From understanding how such representations drive online engagement, the second strategy of image and information manipulation will be discussed. This strategy will consider how the far-right take advantage of social media systems to garner more visibility through manipulating and framing imagery. Lastly, considerations will be made towards how humour through meme images and board subculture have been used as a strategy to lower the boundary for the participation in extremist ideology.

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  1. School of Social Sciences, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK

    Nina Kelly

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    Reza Montasari

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Kelly, N. (2023). A Critical Analysis: Key Strategies of Far-Right Online Visual Propaganda. In: Montasari, R. (eds) Applications for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Forensics in National Security. Advanced Sciences and Technologies for Security Applications. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-40118-3_9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-40118-3_9

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