This book investigates what influence online incivility¿through user-generated comments on news
websites¿has on public debate. Built on the premise that public discussions about important
topics are vital to a healthy democracy the book analyzes 3 508 online comments in order to
understand what factors in comments make them more susceptible to incivility defined as nasty
remarks rife with profanity. It also examines comments for attributes of deliberation which
are discussions across difference supported by evidence and rational arguments. Using an
experiment the book shows that uncivil comments jumpstart a chain reaction leading first to
negative emotion and then to greater intention to get politically involved. Overall Online
Incivility and Public Debate: Nasty Talk argues that while incivility mars online debate it
may also spark interest in important topics and allow for positive ¿deliberative moments¿ of
quality discussion.
