Making Sense with Sam Harris #378 — Digital Delusions
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Aug 2, 2024 
Renée DiResta, a technical research manager at the Stanford Internet Observatory, dives into the chaotic realm of digital misinformation. She highlights the stark difference between influence and propaganda, and how social media fosters echo chambers. The duo discusses the fallout from COVID-19 misinformation, especially regarding vaccines, and how public trust has been undermined. DiResta shares her experiences with smear campaigns and the challenges of navigating free speech amidst the complexities of today's information landscape.
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Propaganda vs. Persuasion
- Propaganda is defined as the systematic effort to shape public opinion using biased or misleading information.
- It differs from persuasion, which respects audience autonomy and avoids manipulation or fakery.
Social Media's Impact on Discourse
- Social media enables niche targeting and closed communities.
- This allows opinions to form within echo chambers, detached from broader public discourse.
Asymmetry of Passion Online
- Coordinated online activity creates an illusion of majority opinion.
- Algorithms amplify this effect, skewing public perception.
