In this insightful discussion, William English, a political economist and associate professor at Georgetown University, delves into the declining trust in news media. He highlights historical perspectives from the Founding Fathers on press freedom and its essential role in democracy. English addresses the pervasive distrust among younger audiences and explores innovative solutions like open-source protocols to restore integrity in journalism. He also examines the implications of decentralized media and community-driven discourse for fostering a healthier information landscape.
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insights INSIGHT
Deep Decline in Media Trust
Trust in news media has declined more sharply than in other institutions, like Congress.
This decline reflects subtle institutional corruption rather than overt bribery or illegal acts.
insights INSIGHT
Technology Shattered Media Trust
The internet dismantled media monopolies and their ad-based revenue models.
Digital tech increased media competition and exposed biases, fueling distrust.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Jefferson’s Press Skepticism
Thomas Jefferson expressed deep skepticism of newspapers filled with misinformation.
He claimed people were better informed ignoring newspapers than believing their falsehoods.
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In 'Code and Other Laws of Cyberspace', Lawrence Lessig argues that computer code plays a significant role in regulating behavior online, similar to legal codes. He discusses four major regulators—law, norms, market, and architecture—and their impact on society. The book also examines the implications for copyright law, suggesting that code can alter the balance in copyright protection by enabling comprehensive licensing of digital content.
After Virtue
Alistair McIntyre
Alasdair MacIntyre's "After Virtue" is a highly influential work in moral philosophy that critiques modern ethical theories and proposes a return to virtue ethics. MacIntyre argues that modern moral philosophy has lost its way, leading to a fragmented and incoherent understanding of morality. He traces the historical development of ethical thought, identifying the decline of virtue ethics and the rise of emotivism and other relativistic approaches. MacIntyre proposes a revival of virtue ethics grounded in the Aristotelian tradition, emphasizing the importance of character development and the cultivation of virtuous dispositions. His work has had a profound impact on contemporary ethical debates, inspiring renewed interest in virtue ethics and its application to various social and political issues.
Propaganda
Edward Bernays
In 'Propaganda,' Edward Bernays lays out his vision for using propaganda to influence various aspects of society, including government, politics, art, science, and education. The book discusses the 'conscious and intelligent manipulation of the organized habits and opinions of the masses' as an essential element in democratic society. Bernays argues that this manipulation is carried out by an 'invisible government' of professional propagandists who shape public thoughts, values, and responses. The book explores the psychological and social science basis of propaganda and its application in different fields, highlighting its potential for both beneficial and detrimental uses[2][3][5].
Why has trust in the news media declined? How can we combat biased reporting and the spread of misinformation? And how do these challenges compare to the media landscape during America’s founding era?
Join us as we explore these pressing questions with William English, a political economist and Associate Professor of Strategy, Economics, Ethics, and Public Policy at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business.
Professor English will discuss his long-standing research on the intersection of ethics, media, and politics, including the Founding Fathers’ views on press freedom and its vital role in maintaining democracy. He’ll also examine the growing problem of “hermeneutic unintelligibility”—where conflicting worldviews make meaningful dialogue between opposing groups nearly impossible. Finally, he’ll explore potential technological solutions, such as open-source protocols, that could help restore trust and transparency in media.
Contributions to and/or sponsorship of any speaker does not constitute departmental or institutional endorsement of the specific program, speakers or views presented.
Madison's Notes 
