Words and Aggression: The Dark Side of the Political Digital Debate

This study analyses the link between language and violence in the digital environment, with a focus on political communication. The use of language online can contribute to polarisation, the spread of hatred and the normalisation of verbal violence, which sometimes anticipates physical violence. The research aims to understand how language is used to exaggerate public debate, and which linguistic strategies favour the legitimisation of aggression in digital contexts, illustrating specific cases that highlight these dynamics. Through a qualitative content analysis and a critical literature review, we analysed the state of the art, focusing on the role of digital platforms in spreading extremist discourses and reinforcing social tensions. Understanding these mechanisms is essential to develop mitigation strategies that promote a more balanced and responsible public debate.