# Quote RTs on Twitter: Usage of the New Feature for Political Discourse

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/1603.07933 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/1603.07933/

## Key facts

- Cited by 2 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 25 Mar 2016.

## Built on by (most cited first, 2 of 2)

- [The Dual Impact of Virtual Reality: Examining the Addictive Potential and Therapeutic Applications of Immersive Media in the Metaverse](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2401.03461/) (2024)
- [The Geography of Information Diffusion in Online Discourse on Europe and Migration](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2402.13800/) (2024)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Social media platforms provide several social interactional features. Due to the large scale reach of social media, these interactional features help enable various types of political discourse. Constructive and diversified discourse is important for sustaining healthy communities and reducing the impact of echo chambers. In this paper, we empirically examine the role of a newly introduced Twitter feature, 'quote retweets' (or 'quote RTs') in political discourse, specifically whether it has led to improved, civil, and balanced exchange. Quote RTs allow users to quote the tweet they retweet, while adding a short comment. Our analysis using content, network and crowd labeled data indicates that the feature has increased political discourse and its diffusion, compared to existing features. We discuss the implications of our findings in understanding and reducing online polarization.