Analysis on the Problems of Internet Conflicts and Countermeasures

Abstract

Polarization and conflict online have grown as one of the most pervasive issues that characterize the contours of the digital environment, with serious risks to social cohesion, democratic discourse, and well-being. This paper thus seeks to trace those very root causes of online conflicts and the dynamics of the escalation process into group-based polarization. The paper considers a proposed model of how personal disagreements between two individuals scale up to large groups of conflicts with the help of cognitive biases, anonymity, and algorithmic reinforcement on digital platforms. Possible policy interventions at each stage of the escalation of conflict are discussed: from digital monitoring and public education about cognitive biases to online mediation programs and changes in algorithms to facilitate cross-cutting interactions. These findings suggest that only multilevel interventions that combine technological, social, and psychological approaches to mitigate conflict while preserving freedom of expression are effective strategies. The paper thus concludes that long-term solutions include changes in culture in building empathetic individuals and critical thinkers, not just immediate moderation. This gives a basis to governments and policymakers on how to understand the complexity and nuances involved in online conflict, thus forming the basis on which more balanced and inclusive digital environments could be developed that foster healthy dialogue and reduce polarization.