Taylor Owen

Taylor Owen, a McGill University professor and expert in media ethics, discusses the alarming erosion of trust in journalism and rampant disinformation in Canada’s online sphere. He highlights how social media has become a breeding ground for misinformation, particularly during elections. Owen addresses the rise of influencers and foreign interference, emphasizing their potential to manipulate public opinion. He also raises concerns about the ideological polarization and echo chambers that threaten the integrity of democracy, calling for better standards and accountability in media.

Taylor Owen, Chair in Media, Ethics and Communication at McGill University and founding director of The Centre for Media, Technology and Democracy, delves into the nuances of a recent diplomatic meeting between Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Donald Trump. He highlights the chasm between calm political discourse and the chaotic narratives on social media. Owen discusses the erosion of trust in Canadian media due to misinformation and foreign influence, emphasizing the urgent need for reform and accountability in digital communication.

Taylor Owen, an expert in policy and technology from McGill’s Centre for Media, and Rachel Samson from the Institute for Research on Public Policy dive into the complexities of citizen engagement in shaping government policy. They discuss who influences government decisions, highlighting the vital roles of think tanks and media. The conversation turns critical as they dissect the effectiveness of parliamentary committees and the changing trust dynamics in media. Insights on navigating government consultations reveal the need for diverse voices and the challenges of effective communication in policy development.