QAA Podcast

The Problem of Disinformation (E334)

4 snips
Jul 30, 2025
Olivier Jutel, a communication studies lecturer at the University of Otago, dives into the complex world of disinformation. He critiques the framing of online conflicts as 'information warfare' and explores how this narrative distracts from deeper political issues. Olivier addresses the influence of tech firms and military interests on public perception, the historical context of disinformation campaigns, and the challenges posed by modern misinformation. He advocates for a shift towards true democratic governance in addressing these pressing issues.
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INSIGHT

Disinfo Overshadows Tech Reform

  • Since 2016, disinformation fears overshadowed potential for antitrust and democratic regulation of tech platforms.
  • National security and Silicon Valley technocrats framed online conflict as "information warfare" to avoid structural reforms.
INSIGHT

Military Roots of Communication

  • The internet and communication technologies have deep military and corporate Cold War roots.
  • Communication has been historically regarded as an instrument to impose power and control in geopolitical struggles.
INSIGHT

Critique of Surveillance Capitalism

  • Shoshana Zuboff's "surveillance capitalism" thesis portrays tech companies as all-powerful manipulators controlling user behavior.
  • This view is disempowering and overly paranoid, ignoring simpler profit motives driving platforms.
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