Video Games and Political Extremism
Do video games cause violence? It’s a topic that’s been around for decades. Studies have consistently shown that video games are a healthy way to relax and unwind. But there is a growing attempt to use the social aspects of video games to recruit gamers into politically extreme groups.
In October this year the Australian Federal Police warned of far-right extremist groups using video game forums as recruitment spaces, targeting marginalised youth with a promise of community and purpose.
Dr. Helen Young is a Lecturer in the School of Communication and Creative Arts at Deakin University, and joined 2SER to explain how and why these extreme groups are recruiting in videogames.
