The Vital Center

The online misinformation epidemic, with Renée DiResta

Jul 31, 2024
Join Renée DiResta, a writer and former research manager at the Stanford Internet Observatory, along with Baron Soga, the founder of Tech Freedom, as they dive into the online misinformation epidemic. DiResta shares her transformative activism journey triggered by the 2014 Disneyland measles outbreak. They discuss how social media alters public trust and amplifies misinformation, the rise of fake news in political contexts, and the challenges institutions face in combating these issues. The conversation also touches on the gladiatorial nature of social media and its implications for user engagement.
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ANECDOTE

Disneyland Measles Sparked Activism

  • After the Disneyland measles outbreak, Renée DiResta examined CA vaccination data and joined Vaccinate California.
  • She used network mapping and targeted ads to counter anti‑vaccine networks.
ANECDOTE

Targeted Ads Preyed On New Parents

  • Anti‑vaccine groups told human stories and ran targeted ads at new parents to spread fear.
  • Those emotionally resonant ads outperformed dry CDC communications.
INSIGHT

Institutions Dismissed Online Threats

  • Renée DiResta found public health officials dismissive, saying "These are just some people online."
  • That attitude left pro‑vaccine voices out of crucial online conversations.
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