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That appears like a reactionary re-interpretation of the concept of an Overton window. Usually the concept is used to explain how previously unthinkable ideas c
by ant6n 6y ago
That appears like a reactionary re-interpretation of the concept of an Overton window. Usually the concept is used to explain how previously unthinkable ideas can become mainstream. For example fascist ideas. Facebook was used to expand the range of "acceptable" ideas, perhaps even to the point where they´ve become mainstream.
- TheAdamAndChe 6y agoThank you, I was not aware of that. Can you provide a source for this so I can learn more? I learned the term from the Wikipedia page for overton window, which doesn't mention its use in the spreading of fascism at all[1]. [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Overton_window https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Overton_window
- ant6n 6y agoI'm saying that the discourse on Facebook has expanded the Overton window so that fascist ideas have become much more mainstream. The Wikipedia article (and the sources) talk about moving or expanding the Overton window, not on contracting it. I think the concept of a contracting Overton window is used to make a subtle jab at political correctness. In reality, in the last several years, toxic discourse has been on the rise.
- bmelton 6y agoThe window is measured in size and location. A window that includes fascism can be big or small, but is likely very far to the right. Similarly, a window that includes legalizing cocaine while banning political speech would need to be very large, ranging from far left to far right.