Online Radicalization in Pakistan: A Critical Appraisal

Abstract

Digital Media (DM) has changed the traditional ways of radicalization processes, providing violent extremists with new methods to spread their messages, attract new followers and mobilize members. This study develops a triangulated theoretical framework to examine how digital media promotes radicalization, based on the Psychological Theory of Radicalization, the Hypodermic Needle Theory, and Filter Bubbles. It identifies the most influential digital media platforms (X, YouTube, and Facebook), websites, and encrypted applications (WhatsApp and Telegram) that contribute to the formation of echo chambers and the promotion of dangerous extreme opinions. The analysis of cases involving individuals and groups demonstrates the connection between psychological vulnerabilities, algorithmic processes, and extremism in the context of radicalization. This paper reveals that if digital radicalization is not controlled, it can lead to increase in national security threats, social division, and economic challenges. By applying deductive qualitative reasoning, this paper analyzes the mechanisms of algorithms, echo chambers, and targeted propaganda. Lastly, the DMF-RVE framework adds new value to the existing conceptual lens to analyze academic and policy relationship debates between digital media and radicalization.