New research from the University of Bath reveals that online influencers can mobilize followers and legitimize harmful behaviors without ever issuing explicit instructions, offering fresh insight into how digital platforms shape public attitudes, emotions and decision-making. The researchers found that far-right influencer Tommy Robinson (whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon) used his Telegram channel to comment on ongoing events and legitimize violence during the anti-immigration protests and riots of 30 July to 7 August 2024 without ever giving direct instructions, allowing him to maintain plausible deniability.
Study of Tommy Robinson’s social media reveals how online influencers mobilize supporters without direct calls to action
Popular Articles
-
The physical, cognitive and emotional loads of running a household should be recognized when examining the health of a couple’s relationship, new research has found. A University of Queensland study examined the “tri-load” of household [...]
-
What kind of society would you rather live in: an equal one where everyone is just about getting by? Or an unequal one where most people are doing substantially better, but a small group consistently [...]
-
Gas appliances are convenient, efficient, and common in Canadian homes. They can also introduce risks that don’t exist with many ordinary electrical appliances. That distinction matters when something goes wrong. A gas range that won’t [...]
-
PALO ALTO, California – August 25, 2026 – AI companion apps are growing fast. These are apps where people chat with AI characters for fun, roleplay, or just everyday talk. A lot of this growth [...]
-
A broken refrigerator is more than just a minor inconvenience; it is a ticking clock against food spoilage. Within just a few hours of a total cooling failure, hundreds of dollars worth of groceries, fresh [...]
-
Website design is a critical aspect of the digital world. It’s the face of businesses, the canvas for creativity, and a crucial touchpoint for user interaction. A great website designer combines technical skills, creative flair, [...]
-
In the world of cloud computing, data security is paramount. According to Ezops Cloud when it comes to Amazon Web Services (AWS), safeguarding your information is vital for protecting your business and your customers. This [...]
