
On the Media
Learning Elon Musk’s Media Playbook. Plus, Silicon Valley’s Rightwing Roots.
Feb 21, 2025
Will Oremus, a tech reporter at The Washington Post, dives into Elon Musk's role in shaping modern media narratives and right-wing politics, highlighting his controversial feuds and influence on public perception. Becca Lewis discusses Silicon Valley's conservative transition and its impact on technology's role in governance. Elyse Graham reveals how scholars and librarians became unlikely spies during WWII, showcasing the power of narrative manipulation in conflict. Together, these insights unravel the complex interplay between tech and politics both historically and today.
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Quick takeaways
- Elon Musk's engagement with social media exemplifies a new era of information warfare, amplifying misleading narratives within the right-wing discourse.
- The historical involvement of scholars and librarians in World War II underscores the vital role of knowledge and strategy in shaping intelligence narratives.
Deep dives
The Influence of Social Media on Information Warfare
The role of social media has become increasingly critical in shaping narratives and influencing public discourse, particularly within right-wing circles. A case in point is how Elon Musk's activities and comments can rapidly circulate online, gaining traction through platforms like Twitter and being amplified by prominent figures such as Joe Rogan and Fox News personalities. This dynamic creates a feedback loop where fabricated or exaggerated claims can resonate widely before being contested, reflecting a new form of information warfare. The strategy of leveraging social media highlights the challenges faced by traditional media outlets in navigating the rapid dissemination of potentially misleading or conspiratorial narratives.
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