Changes in how we share and receive information are reshaping democratic stability. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Elisa sits down with Barbara McQuade, Professor at the University of Michigan Law School and former U.S. Attorney, to examine how disinformation, digital echo chambers, and the decline of civic infrastructure are reshaping public trust. Drawing from her book, Attack from Within, Barbara explores the long-term effects of polarization, the influence of algorithms, and the role lawyers and lawmakers can play in defending democratic values.

Barbara McQuade is a Professor from Practice at Michigan Law

References:

McQuade, Barbara. Attack from Within: How Disinformation Is Sabotaging America. Seven Stories Press, 2024.

#SistersinLaw Podcast

NSLT, Ep. 229, "Broken News and the Media Rage Machine with Chris Stirewalt"

Minow, Martha. Saving the News: Why the Constitution Calls for Government Action to Preserve Freedom of Speech. Oxford University Press, 2021.

Putnam, Robert D. Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community. Touchstone Books by Simon & Schuster, 2001.

FISA Section 230

S.2972 - A bill to repeal section 230 of the Communications Act of 1934