Ostilità. Vecchi e nuovi bersagli, vecchi e nuovi virus

During the State of Emergency in the health sector with the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, numerous manifestations of unitive emotional demands occurred. This period of disruption also gave rise, however, to a revival of phenomena of identification of hate target groups, as it happens in moments of rupture. This paper intends to analyse from an “onlife” perspective the role of emotions and moral disengagement in favouring the manifestations of hated. The case study of online anti-Semitism at the time of Covid-19 and post-truth is analyzed, highlighting how “new viruses” are used to unleash hostility towards “old targets”. Flaming targets new groups and new symbols. These different forms of hate language are fueled by common elements such as conspiracy mindset and conspiracy theories that have increased their impact in the political and social conflict, alongside with the expressions of anger towards measures that are perceived as oppressive towards the “I” at a time when society is struggling to get out of the pandemic emergency.