Just how dangerous are memes? The power of memes has grown and is now a weapon used to push disinformation, spread ideologies, and deepen partisanship. They are fueling a cultural war that continues to accelerate and intensify.

Joan Donovan and Emily Dreyfuss recount how “Stop the Steal” went from online to real life. They reveal startling secrets from the digital war rooms and the troubling developments led by conspiracists and extremists to upend our country’s democracy.

As the battle continues, learn more about what could be at stake for the future of our country

Note: This program contains EXPLICIT language

SPEAKERS

Joan Donovan

Research Director, Harvard Kennedy School’s Shorenstein Center; Co-author, Meme Wars: The Untold Story of the Online Battles Upending Democracy in America

Emily Dreyfuss

Journalist; Co-author, Meme Wars: The Untold Story of the Online Battles Upending Democracy in America

In Conversation with Lauren Goode

Senior Editor, Wired

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are currently hosting all of our live programming via YouTube live stream. This program was recorded live on October 3rd, 2022 by the Commonwealth Club of California.

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Joan Donovan and Emily Dreyfuss: Meme Wars