Online hate speech and value orientation. Does value preference affect how we perceive hate against migrants on the Internet?

Aim. This study aims to provide insight into people's perception of hate speech against migrants in the context of human values. Understanding how individuals perceive and respond to hate speech is crucial in addressing this issue. Method. A representative sample of Slovak in- habitants (N=649) based on quota characteristics for gender, age, and education was presented with a set of 20 randomly selected comments, containing different levels of hate speech. The participants evaluated the character of the text, i.e., it is/is not a hate speech, and their level of agreement with the text. The Schwartz Value Orientation Questionnaire (PVQ 21) was used to measure value orientation. Data processing was performed in R programming, using descriptive statistics and Pearson's correlations. A radar chart as a graphical method of displaying multivariate data was used. Results. The results point to differences in the perception of hate speech in relation to human values. Individuals with a high score in traditional values (i.e., respect for traditional culture) perceived hate speech differently compared to individuals with a high score in universalism (i.e., tolerance and protection for the welfare of all people). Individuals preferring the value of security (i.e., personal, national security) proved to be more tolerant of hate speech on the Internet. The study highlights the need for public and scholarly discussions, and intervention programs tackling online hate speech against migrants.