On this episode of Virtual Sentiments, Kristen interviews Emerson T. Brooking, a resident senior fellow at the Digital Forensic Research Lab of the Atlantic Council, on the presence of disinformation in social media. Brooking gives his definition of disinformation and highlights particular aspects of social media that frequently interact with the rapid expansion of disinformation. The two also discuss the incentives behind disinformation and how the expansion of one's audience can play into the propagation of disinformation. Brooking goes on to share his views on why disinformation is not a problem to be solved but rather a feature of communications technology to be considered when making decisions. Additionally, Brooking shares how his upbringing in rural Georgia shaped his views of communications technology and gave him insight into the role of local journalism in fostering trust among individuals.

To learn more about the topics discussed in today's conversation, consider reading Emerson Brooking's book: LikeWar: The Weaponization of Social Media.

Read more work from Emerson Brooking.

Read more work from Kristen Collins.

If you like the show, please leave a 5-star review for us on Apple Podcasts and tell others about the show! We're available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, and wherever else you get your podcasts.

Follow the Hayek Program on Twitter: @HayekProgram

Learn more about Academic & Student Programs

Follow the Mercatus Center on Twitter: @mercatus