After America E6: Lie Hard - How Authoritarians Weaponize Bad Information

Deep Dive with Shawn C. Fettig

How does disinformation threaten the very fabric of our democracy? In this episode of After America, we explore this pressing issue. We examine the intentionality behind disinformation campaigns and the alarming findings from the Pew Research Center about the spread of fabricated news during the 2020 election. We highlight the distinctions between misinformation, disinformation, and rumors, highlighting how these falsehoods not only strain interpersonal relationships but also hinder policy agreement. And, we take a close look at the controversial House Committee on the Weaponization of Government, led by Representative Jim Jordan, and its contentious focus on alleged suppression of conservative voices.
We uncover the complexities of how disinformation erodes public trust and democratic institutions, and discuss how social media amplifies conflicting realities through echo chambers and algorithms. From the emotional triggers of false content to the radicalization of vulnerable individuals, this episode leaves no stone unturned.
The threats to American democracy are more significant than ever, and misinformation plays a crucial role. We’ll explore how certain political actions, despite claims of protecting free speech, actually stifle it, further eroding public trust. And, we discuss the long-term democratic implications, including increased polarization and the potential rise of authoritarianism.
Guests: Dr. Kate Starbird, Dr. Alice Marwick, and Dr. Tom Ginsburg
Credits:
Infados - Kevin MacLeod
Dark Tales: Music by Rahul Bhardwaj from Pixabay

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1. After America E6: Lie Hard - How Authoritarians Weaponize Bad Information (00:00:00)

2. Rise of Misinformation in Democracy (00:00:03)

3. Impact of Disinformation on Democracy (00:14:58)

4. Social Media, Politics, and Regulation (00:29:42)

5. Threats to American Democracy (00:43:51)