Too scared to share? Fear of social sanctions for political expression on social media
研究利用2020年美国大选期间的调查数据，发现人们线上社交网络的意识形态多样性会加剧对社会制裁的恐惧，进而抑制多种形式的在线政治表达。
Abstract While social media provide opportunities for political expression, many people may be reluctant to share their opinions if they fear personal or professional repercussions for posting political views. Fear of social sanctions (FOSSs) therefore represents a promising approach to investigate why people often avoid expressing political opinions online. Using panel survey data collected during the 2020 U.S. election, this study examines the predictors of FOSSs, as well as its relationship with several forms of online political expression. Results indicate that the ideological diversity of people’s online networks fosters their FOSSs, which in turn is associated with decreases in several types of online political expression. Thus, FOSSs may be an important determinant in individuals’ calculations to express political opinions online and may also hinder lower commitment forms of political engagement.