Renee DiResta, an academic and researcher specializing in online abuse and disinformation at Georgetown, dives deep into the evolving landscape of online speech and moderation. She shares insights on the challenges researchers face, likening current threats to McCarthyism. The discussion uncovers the implications of diminished moderation on public discourse, particularly leading into the 2024 Election. DiResta also highlights how foreign interference and the rise of peer-to-peer misinformation complicate trust in online platforms amidst heated political dynamics.
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Personal Repercussions of Research
Renee DiResta's work has drawn harassment, threats, congressional investigations, and lawsuits.
One lawsuit is led by Stephen Miller, who will be a Trump advisor.
insights INSIGHT
Propaganda Campaign
DiResta believes the attacks are not truly about her work, but a propaganda campaign.
This campaign casts her as a villain to rally a political base.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Conspiracy Theory and Investigation
A conspiracy theory alleges DiResta's work at Stanford Internet Observatory was a government censorship operation.
This theory, based on misleading testimony, sparked investigations despite lacking evidence.
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Renée DiResta’s investigation reveals how power and influence have been transformed by a virtual rumor mill of niche propagandists. These propagandists, despite positioning themselves as trustworthy, wield significant reach, influence, and economic power, undermining the legitimacy of institutions and reshaping politics, culture, and society. The book exposes the machinery and dynamics of the interplay between influencers, algorithms, and online crowds, and offers strategies for leaders to adapt and counter these forces.
Hello, Nilay here. We’re still on winter break; we’ll be back with brand-new Decoder interviews next week, and with our Thursday shows later this month. I’m excited for what we’ve got in the pipeline. I think you’re going to love it.
For today, though, we’re sharing an episode of Peter Kafka’s new show Channels – he’s talking to disinformation researcher Renee DiResta about what’s going on with speech online in an era where platforms seem less inclined to moderate than ever. Peter’s an old friend and Renee is an expert on all this — there’s a lot of core Decoder themes in this one. Enjoy, and we’ll be back in a bit.
Decoder with Nilay Patel 
