Kauhukkoiskut

Kauhukkoiskut, or "scarecrow discussions," refer to a phenomenon in Finnish online and social media discourse where individuals deliberately provoke emotional reactions, often through exaggerated or fabricated claims, to manipulate public opinion or generate controversy. The term combines "kauhu," meaning "fear," and "iskut," meaning "strikes" or "impacts," reflecting the intention to create a stir or stir up fear.

This tactic is commonly used in political debates, viral social media posts, or online forums to polarize discussions and draw attention to a particular issue. Scarecrow discussions often rely on sensationalized language, misinformation, or exaggerated scenarios to evoke strong emotional responses, such as fear, anger, or outrage. The goal is typically to sway public perception, influence voting behavior, or simply increase engagement on a platform.

The practice has been observed in various contexts, including debates over immigration, climate change, or public policy. Critics argue that scarecrow discussions undermine rational discourse by prioritizing emotional manipulation over factual analysis. Some platforms and moderators have taken steps to address this issue by implementing content policies that discourage or remove posts that rely on fearmongering or misinformation.

While not unique to Finland, the term "kauhukkoiskut" highlights a broader trend in digital communication where emotional triggers are used to shape narratives. Recognizing this tactic can help individuals engage more critically with online content and resist manipulation. Media literacy and fact-checking remain important tools in countering the effects of scarecrow discussions.