Invisible Rulers: The People Who Turn Lies into Reality

Impossible Tradeoffs with Katie Harbath

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This is the last episode of season 2! Thank you all for listening. I’ll be taking a break over the summer and returning with season 3 in the Fall. Between now and then, I might be planning a few summer spectacular episodes, so keep your eyes out.

I couldn’t have asked for a better person to end the season with. Renee DiResta joins me this week to discuss her background and journey into researching the anti-vaccine movement, the impact of social media on public opinion, and the concept of 'invisible rulers' in her book 'Invisible Rulers.’ She also explores the role of influencers in shaping public opinion and the ethical considerations of platform algorithms in content distribution. She delves into the challenges of researching algorithms, the evolution of content control on platforms, and the politicization of her work. Additionally, she shares insights on the importance of engaging in the face of misinformation and the shaping of public opinion.

Takeaways

* Renee's background spans various roles, leading to her involvement in researching the anti-vaccine movement.

* The impact of social media on public opinion and the lack of counter speech and narrative is a significant concern.

* The concept of 'invisible rulers' and the role of influencers in shaping public opinion is explored in her book 'Invisible Rulers'.

* Ethical considerations of platform algorithms in content distribution, particularly the distinction between free speech and free reach, are important to address.

* Challenges of researching algorithms and content control on platforms

* The politicization of research work and the importance of engaging in the face of misinformation

* Insights on the shaping of public opinion and the impact of algorithms on society

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