'Flicking the Switch': The Ethical Implications of Researching Online Extremism Dr Ashton Kingdon

This talk explores some of the challenges researchers face when conducting sensitive or high-risk studies, and strategies to maintain well-being, drawing on personal experience of five years undercover researching far-right and jihadist online radicalisation. It will examine both obvious risks, such as exposure to violent content and networked harassment, and subtler issues like cumulative stress and vicarious trauma. The discussion will then shift to the institutional context, addressing gaps in support systems and ways to navigate them, including leveraging the ethics process to secure necessary resources. Drawing on best practices, it will consider how institutions can best protect their researchers. Finally, it will cover practical support strategies, from research-specific approaches like online safety and operational security, to personal well-being practices, peer support networks, and professional counselling. This comprehensive overview aims to equip researchers with some tools to thrive in demanding research environments.

Date: December 9th 2024
Time: 4-5pm (UK time)
Place: Online