Mixed & Mutable Extremism Research: Methods, Ethics & Safeguarding

Dr Laura Naegler, University of Liverpool.

Researching (online) mixed and mutable extremism such as Incel, misogynistic, far right ideologies and conspiracy theories, and with this environments in which hate speech and violence are endorsed and promoted, comes with several risks and challenges.

Researchers have to grapple with practical and moral dilemmas surrounding accessing hard-to-reach and potentially vulnerable populations, whilst also navigating complex University ethical approval processes.

Researching mixed and mutable extremism also comes with psychological and safeguarding challenges. The exposure to hateful content is emotionally taxing and can impact on researchers’ mental health. Researchers have to face the risks of doxing and online/offline harassment by those promoting hate. This risk is significantly heightened for female(-presenting), queer, trans, gender-nonconforming, and racialised researchers. Postgraduate and early career researchers here face the additional challenge of maintaining safety while also developing the online professional visibility required to succeed in the academic job market.

Drawing on qualitative interviews with academic researchers working in the field of mixed and mutable extremism, this seminar will discuss the strategies that researchers utilise to navigate emotional, psychological and personal safety risks. By doing so, it will also address the dangers of individualising risk management and self-care, and highlight the importance of institutional responsibility in supporting and protecting researchers.