The phenomenon of hate in public discourse

The article undertakes hate issue in public discourse, mainly in the Internet-a negative phenomenon that has become a serious social problem in last few years and which infracts all moral and legal norms. Article brings up question of freedom of speech or anonymity in the Internet. It’s starting point is attempt to define the term of ‘hate’ (including other terms associated with it) and point out the causes of hate. The article presents examples of people who have become victims of hate-including well-known journalists, celebrities but also ordinary people who are not public figures. The article discusses the problem of using Internet hate for political and propaganda purposes; e ven the existence of ‘Internet industry of hate’. Afterwards, it points out the examples of counteracting this issue. Discusses the huge role and necessity of education from an early age and the need for changes in Polish law and legislation. The article also describes examples of specific social campaigns organized by foundations and associations which are fighting against hate in the Web, as well as in public space. The scientific method that is used in the article is mainly the analysis of the content.