theglobeandmail.com
Canadian MP Resigns Due to Online Hate
Canadian MP Jenica Atwin resigned from federal politics due to overwhelming online hate, including threats of violence, impacting her mental health and highlighting the need for societal change to combat online abuse of politicians.
- What specific impacts did online hate have on Jenica Atwin's political career and mental well-being?
- Jenica Atwin, a Canadian MP, resigned from federal politics due to the overwhelming online hate she received, particularly after joining the Liberal Party in 2021. The abuse, including bomb threats and threats of sexual violence, significantly impacted her mental health and that of her family.
- How did the COVID-19 pandemic and political polarization contribute to the increase in online hate against politicians?
- Atwin's experience highlights a broader issue of online hate directed at politicians, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and political polarization. This abuse takes a particularly gendered form against women, involving dismissal or sexual threats.
- What societal changes are needed to effectively address the issue of online hate targeting politicians, and what role can legislation play?
- The resignation underscores the need for societal change to combat online hate. While technological solutions are insufficient, a cultural shift towards respectful disagreement is crucial to protect politicians' mental health and ensure effective governance. Quebec's recent legislation fining those who threaten politicians offers a potential model.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the negative impact of online hate on Atwin's mental health and her decision to leave politics. While this is a significant aspect, the article could benefit from a more balanced framing that also explores the broader implications of online hate for democracy and political discourse.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and descriptive, accurately conveying the severity of the situation without resorting to overly emotional or charged language. The use of quotes from Atwin and Tenove allows their voices to be heard directly.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the online hate Atwin received, but omits discussion of potential systemic issues contributing to this, such as the lack of robust online hate speech moderation policies or the role of algorithms in amplifying negativity. It also doesn't explore the broader impact of online abuse on political participation and representation, particularly for women.
Gender Bias
The article highlights the disproportionate online abuse faced by women politicians, providing specific examples of the gendered nature of the threats Atwin received. This is a strength. However, it could further analyze societal factors contributing to this gendered abuse.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the negative impact of online hate speech and threats on political figures, undermining democratic institutions and the ability of elected officials to perform their duties. The threats described, including bomb threats and threats of sexual violence, directly threaten the safety and security of politicians, hindering their ability to function effectively and participate in public life. The resulting resignations of elected officials further weaken democratic institutions.