VIRTUAL CANCELLATION: AN (IN)APPROPRIATE WAY TO COMBAT HATE SPEECH

Abstract

This article addresses the issue of using online cancellation as a tool to combat hate speech.  To achieve the objectives of this study, a bibliographic research methodology was adopted, drawing on scientific articles, dissertations, and books that address eugenics, hate speech, and virtual cancellation. The analysis of these works was conducted using a qualitative approach in order to provide insights into the proposed research objectives. The insights provided by this research indicate that virtual cancellation is not the most appropriate means of combating hate speech, given that the “virtual tribunal” imposes the penalty of “cancellation” unreasonably and in disregard of the principles of the right to a fair hearing and human dignity; furthermore, it is also not evident that the unrestricted prohibition of this type of discursive practice is an effective path toward its eradication, given that the elimination of hate speech content requires dialogue that promotes the confrontation and reframing of ideas.