Enter staged right: misinformation feeds Britain’s riots
Aug 5, 2024
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Andrew Palmer, Britain editor for The Economist, and Moeka Iida, a correspondent covering Japanese politics, delve into the chaos unfolding in Britain due to misinformation surrounding a tragic knife attack. They explore how right-wing narratives fuel unrest and the challenges faced by authorities in countering these falsehoods. Moeka highlights the rise of social media populism in Japan, showcasing its impact on youth engagement in politics. They also draw fascinating parallels between 'House of the Dragon' and the complexities of modern governance.
Misinformation regarding immigration has exacerbated public unrest in Britain, illustrating how false narratives can manipulate societal tensions and fuel violence.
The Tokyo gubernatorial election reflects a transformative shift in political campaigning, showcasing the impact of social media on engaging younger voters and challenging traditional politics.
Deep dives
Back to School Essentials
The discussion centers around how families can prepare for the back-to-school season seamlessly. Grocery delivery services are highlighted as a solution for obtaining lunch favorites and school supplies quickly, emphasizing the convenience of delivery options. The ability to receive items like fresh fruit and essential supplies in as little as 30 minutes is presented as a helpful resource for parents. This easy access is particularly useful when faced with last-minute school projects, reflecting a broader trend toward using technology for everyday challenges.
Mob Violence and Online Disinformation
Recent mob violence in Britain following a tragic knife attack is explored, with a focus on how online disinformation has fueled public unrest. The killing of three young girls has sparked protests that have escalated into violence, with some protesters associating the crime with immigration issues. Investigations reveal that misinformation spread about the attack's perpetrator, whom social media falsely labeled as an illegal immigrant. This chaotic and complex situation highlights societal tensions while revealing how easily prejudices can be manipulated for political gain.
Japanese Political Campaigning Innovation
The Tokyo gubernatorial election showcased a dramatic shift in political campaigning, illustrating a departure from traditional methods to the effective use of social media. A relatively unknown candidate, Ishimaru Shinji, gained significant traction by utilizing platforms like TikTok and YouTube, where he secured a strong youth following. This contrasts sharply with established politicians who relied on outdated campaign strategies, demonstrating a potential new avenue for political engagement in Japan. The election results indicate a desire for change among voters, highlighting the power of social media in shaping contemporary political landscapes.
Unrest across the country has been driven in part by the provably false claims of right-wing provocateurs. We examine the real concerns underlying the violence, and how to end it swiftly. Japanese politics had until recently been anachronistically tame; not so now that the social-media populists have arrived (10:18). And the notable parallels between “House of the Dragon” and modern politics (18:00).