158. The antidote to our disinformation woes? Just a dash of fun
Aug 20, 2024
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Renee Diresta, a former Stanford Internet Observatory Research Director and author of 'Invisible Rulers,' delves into the world of disinformation and its emotional underpinnings. She discusses the urgent need for timely analysis to tackle online misinformation, especially related to COVID-19 and the 2020 election. Diresta emphasizes how humor can undermine divisive narratives and explores the challenges faced by researchers combating falsehoods in a politically charged environment. The conversation highlights the potential for lightheartedness to influence serious discourse.
The Stanford Internet Observatory leveraged a rapid response model to combat disinformation, operating like a newsroom to provide timely insights.
Emotional engagement, through humor and relatability, became essential for effectively reshaping narratives around misinformation in the digital landscape.
Deep dives
Foundation of the Stanford Internet Observatory
The Stanford Internet Observatory (SIO) was established by researcher Renee Durresta in 2019 to combat online disinformation and enhance understanding of trust and information integrity. Unlike traditional academic research that takes considerable time, SIO aimed to provide rapid response research, recognizing that disinformation moves quickly and can have real-world implications. The SIO operated similarly to a newsroom, with team members collaborating in real-time to analyze and debunk misinformation as it surfaced. This innovative approach was designed to inform the public and policy-makers with timely insights on the rapidly evolving disinformation landscape.
The Backlash Against Disinformation Research
SIO found itself unexpectedly targeted by political figures following the release of research on pandemic misinformation, which led to accusations of censorship of conservative viewpoints. Congressman Jim Jordan spearheaded efforts to question and subpoena SIO researchers, claiming they were part of a government effort to control information. The situation escalated as SIO's research on electoral integrity also drew scrutiny, with allegations suggesting their work was an attempt to undermine conservative narratives. This confrontation revealed the intersection of academic research and political rhetoric, forcing researchers like Renee to navigate a challenging landscape of misinformation and political backlash.
Evolving Strategies in Combatting Disinformation
As political dynamics shifted, there emerged a recognition that combatting disinformation required more than simply fact-checking; emotional engagement became a significant factor in online sharing. The response to viral disinformation often lacked factual basis, focusing instead on evoking strong emotions which drove online behavior. Researchers and political figures began to adopt strategies that incorporated humor and relatability to reframe discussions around misinformation, aiming to resonate with broader audiences. The efforts included reclaiming narratives and creating content that connected on an emotional level, highlighting a newfound understanding of how to address and combat the viral nature of false information effectively.
For years now, the Internet has trafficked in things that are more mean than fun. Disinformation, online bullying, and a general malaise are all over social media. We talk to former Stanford Internet Observatory Research Director Renee Diresta about her new book “Invisible Rulers” and ask why, ahead of the DNC Convention, the Dems’ new unbearable lightness has gone so viral.