The Daily Show: Ears Edition cover image

The Daily Show: Ears Edition

Addressing Disinformation in the 2024 Election

Sep 7, 2024
Barbara McQuad, a University of Michigan Law Professor and author of 'Attack From Within', joins Michael Kosta to tackle the critical issue of disinformation in the U.S. They dive into the distinction between misinformation and disinformation, and how the latter poses a domestic threat. The conversation also highlights the psychological tactics used by politicians to manipulate emotions while discussing the urgent need for media literacy reforms. McQuad emphasizes that understanding information is as vital as a driving license in today's media landscape.
12:57

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Disinformation deliberately misleads the public to manipulate perceptions and undermine trust in democratic institutions and social cohesion.
  • Political figures use nostalgia to emotionally connect with voters, crafting narratives of decline while positioning themselves as the solution.

Deep dives

The Pervasiveness of Disinformation

Disinformation plays a crucial role in manipulating public perception and advancing specific agendas. Unlike misinformation, which is accidental and often spread unknowingly, disinformation is the deliberate dissemination of falsehoods to mislead the public. This manipulation has become increasingly prominent within the United States, as political tactics are used to create division and provoke conflict among citizens. The focus on targets like public figures highlights how disinformation undermines social cohesion and trust in institutions, making it essential to recognize and combat these tactics for a healthier democracy.

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