The video essay as a form of public discourse for persuasive purposes

Abstract

The video essay is a very unique medium, where video essayists manage to balance between entertainment and information. In the wake of the rise of the Alt-Right online, the Internet became a hub for extremist content made by right-wing figureheads who spread conspiracy theories like wildfire, radicalising many into the far-right movement. Leftist content creators, known informally as LeftTube, were inspired to act in order to counteract the effects of this Alt-Right Pipeline. The most popular ones, Natalie Wynn of ContraPoints, Abigail Thorn of Philosophy Tube, and Harry Brewis (also known as Hbomberguy), are known for creating lengthy and well-researched content, which is still entertaining and convincing. This dissertation examines the political context in which this medium arises; the community of creators aiming to deradicalise viewers and prevent future radicalisation; and finally delves into a rhetorical study of the video essay as a form of public discourse for persuasive purposes.