A rhetorical discourse analysis of online anti-Muslim and anti-Semitic jokes

#socialmedia

Constructed with linguistic devices that resemble metaphor and other rhetorical devices, humor has the inbuilt ability to support racism in various readings. Through a discourse analysis of anti-Muslim and anti-Semitic jokes, this article outlines the connections between humorous and serious racism.

It explains how online humor expresses two logics of racism: social inclusion and exclusion. Stereotypes and interiorization are used in combination and separately to form ‘acceptable’ inclusive images in jokes. Where jokes depict exclusion, this is achieved through images of removal, violence or death.

Although the stereotypes and exclusions of Muslims and Jews presented in the jokes are not the same, having both different histories and different trajectories in relation to contemporary racialization's, it is argued that the underlying logic of racism is the same. This logic, in particular readings, supports the hard and extreme right-wing views of some of the websites, although the jokes are open to other interpretations as well.

A rhetorical discourse analysis of online anti-Muslim and anti-Semitic jokes provides valuable insights into the connections between humor and serious racism. Let’s delve into this topic:

1. Title and Author:

• The book titled “A Rhetorical Discourse Analysis of Online Anti-Muslim and Anti-Semitic Jokes” by Simon Weaver1 explores the use of humor in perpetuating stereotypes and discriminatory attitudes.

1. Methodology:

• Weaver employs rhetorical humor analysis to dissect these jokes. This approach considers the assumptions, propositions, uniqueness, and limitations of various theories related to disparagement humor.

• The study focuses on a sample of 28 online anti-Semitic jokes to illustrate different methods of analysis2.

1. Findings:

• The central observation is that rhetorical humor analysis enhances our understanding of disparagement theory.

• Weaver highlights how online humor can express two logics of racism: social inclusion (where jokes reinforce stereotypes within a group) and exclusion (where jokes target and marginalize specific communities).

In summary, Weaver’s work sheds light on the complex interplay between humor, prejudice, and discrimination in online spaces. It underscores the importance of critically examining jokes to uncover underlying biases and their impact on social dynamics.