This week we hear from philosopher, writer, and professor C. Thi Nguyen. Thi is perhaps best known for his recent essay in Aeon magazine, Escape the Echo Chamber, that went viral at a time when many Americans are struggling to understand the interplay between social media and the rise of conspiracy theories. Our conversation with him is wide ranging, spanning from the gamification of social media to the difference between filter bubbles and echo chambers, and why conspiracy theories are so appealing to many. Thi is the author of Games: Agency As Art, and helps us understand the power that games can have in our lives – both good and bad.

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This episode was produced by APHSA. Editing and sound design by Brandon Mitchell.

Links:

Thi's website with links and additional information

Trust in Numbers: The Pursuit of Objectivity in Science and Public Life, Theodore M. Porter

The Seductions of Quantification Measuring Human Rights, Gender Violence, and Sex Trafficking, Sally Engle Merry