Unveiling Hate Speech Dynamics: An Examination of Discourse Targeting the Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) (Social Inclusion)

This article examines hate speech on the social media platform X directed at the Spanish meteorological governmental organization, AEMET. We used text mining, qualitative analysis, and hate speech identification algorithms to examine over half a million communications that were uploaded between December 31, 2021, and April 19, 2023. Approximately 25% of the communications, according to our analysis, express animosity toward AEMET, its employees, and scientific research. A tendency of anti-intellectualism and distrust toward scientific knowledge was reflected in the numerous insults and disparaging remarks directed at meteorologists. Furthermore, the proliferation of conspiracy theories, like those about chemtrails and geoengineering, highlights the existence of false information in online groups. This study emphasizes how important it is to combat hate speech in scientific communication and meteorology. In order to preserve the integrity and reputation of scientific organizations like AEMET, this paper highlights the detrimental effects of such rhetoric on public confidence in scientific institutions and calls for coordinated efforts to advance informed discussion and evidence-based debate.

https://www.cogitatiopress.com/socialinclusion/article/view/9291