Cancellation in time, space and form

articulations between cultural wars, platforms and hate speech

Abstract

This article examines the interrelationships between the centrality of platforms in the contemporary world, in a context of cultural wars that polarize the public debate, and toxic practices that emerge from certain dynamics of cultural cancellation, within the framework of current society. The analysis is organized into three sections: the first contextualizes a period of cancellation, substantiating its relationship with cultural wars and significant polarization; The second critically evaluates digital platforms, their characteristics of social exclusion and opaque governance, emphasizing how they support and benefit from cancellation. Finally, the third section focuses on hate speech, highlighting the toxic impact of this practice on contemporary society and questioning its legitimacy as a tool of social justice.