ELVIN TALIHSINSKY
PhD in Political Science, Associate Professor,
Head of the Department of Political and Social Sciences, Azerbaijan University
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5318-5537
INFORMATION TERRORISM IN THE DIGITAL ERA:
THE ROLE OF RELIGIOUS NARRATIVES IN RADICALIZATION
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36719/2708-065X/112/78-83
The article is devoted to the study of the phenomenon of information terrorism, taking into account the role of the religious factor in the manipulation of consciousness. In the modern conditions of the rapid development of information and communication technologies, the information space is becoming not only a means of knowledge exchange and cultural interaction, but also an instrument of destructive influence on society. Particular attention is paid to the mechanisms of using religious rhetoric by extremist organizations to legitimize violence and form radical attitudes in individuals. The key features of information terrorism are considered, including global coverage, the use of social networks to mobilize supporters, creating the illusion of mass support for radical ideas and a combination of psychological pressure with manipulative technologies. Specific aspects of the religious factor are analyzed: manipulation of sacred texts, formation of the image of a "sacred mission", the "friends - foes" dichotomy and the use of charismatic leaders. Separately, the need for a comprehensive counteraction is emphasized, including international cooperation, the development of media education, support for traditional religious institutions and scientific and analytical activities. The article emphasizes that religion as such is not a source of terrorism; extremists only use it as a tool to justify violence. The material may be useful to specialists in the field of information security, sociology of religion, media education and intercultural studies.
Keywords: information terrorism, religious factor, manipulation of consciousness, radicalization, media education, extremism, cybersecurity.