Quando la comunicazione politica è "senza freni" e diventa conflitto

Abstract

In today’s digital society, language and communicative practices play a crucial role in shaping and spreading narrative representations that can potentially lead to forms of violence, whether symbolic or substantial. This contribution investigates the link between language and violence in the virtual realm, with a specific focus on aspects emerging from political communication. Through a critical analysis of online public discourse, it delves into the mechanisms by which the message itself is employed to polarize debates, legitimize hatred, and normalize forms of verbal aggression that may foreshadow physical violence. The work examines how digital platforms, frequently used by political actors, facilitate the proliferation of extremist expressions, contributing to increasing social tensions. Drawing on a multidis-ciplinary approach, the research focuses on how new digital communication technologies can amplify the power of political leaders to shape public discourse and, in some cases, incite violence through the strategic and manipulative use of language.