Poe's Law, Group Polarization, and the Epistemology of Online Religious Discourse

14 Pages Posted: 24 Jan 2009

See all articles by Scott F. Aikin

Scott F. Aikin

Vanderbilt University - Philosophy Department

Date Written: January, 23 2009

Abstract

Poe's Law is roughly that online parodies of religious extremism are indistinguishable from instances of sincere extremism. Poe's Law may be expressed in a variety of ways, each highlighting either a facet of indirect discourse generally, attitudes of online audiences, or the quality of online religious material. As a consequence of the polarization of online discussions, invocations of Poe's Law have relevance in wider circles than religion. Further, regular invocations of Poe's Law in critical discussions have the threat of further entrenching and polarizing views.

Keywords: Epistemology, Satire, Group Polarization, Religion

Suggested Citation

Aikin, Scott F., Poe's Law, Group Polarization, and the Epistemology of Online Religious Discourse (January, 23 2009). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1332169 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.1332169

Scott F. Aikin (Contact Author)

Vanderbilt University - Philosophy Department ( email )

2301 Vanderbilt Place
Nashville, TN 37240
United States

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