The Lawfare Podcast Thomas Rid on 'Active Measures,' Part 2
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Apr 30, 2020 Thomas Rid, a Professor of Strategic Studies at Johns Hopkins, discusses his book on the secret history of disinformation and political warfare. He delves into the evolution of disinformation tactics since the Cold War, including chilling KGB operations. Rid shares insights from interviewing former intelligence officials and sheds light on the complexities of modern disinformation in the digital age. The conversation also examines the Internet Research Agency's influence on electoral interference, highlighting the critical role journalism plays in shaping our understanding of these campaigns.
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KGB's Fake Anti-Semitic Campaign
- The KGB ran a fake anti-Semitic campaign causing nearly 900 incidents worldwide in 7 weeks.
- This operation embarrassed West Germany and spread anti-Semitism across many countries.
Interviewing Former Intelligence Officers
- Former intelligence officers interviewed were sharp, attentive, and highly professional.
- Their training made them charming and convinced, making interviews fascinating but challenging.
Disinformation Undermines Epistemic Order
- Disinformation attacks the liberal epistemic order by exploiting existing biases, not solely by spreading falsehoods.
- It mixes facts and fiction to exacerbate societal frictions rather than focus on truth.
