Unspun

In today’s media landscape, distinguishing between news, commentary, and editorials has become harder than ever. With publications shifting editorial policies (like Jeff Bezos’ recent changes at the Washington Post), cable news blending reporting with opinion, and social media amplifying misleading content, it’s no wonder audiences feel lost.

Image credit: By Ed! at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=36144156

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Ever notice how politicians & public figures claim their most controversial statements were "just a joke"? It’s not by accident. In this episode of UnSpun, we dive into how humor is used as a shield—and a weapon. Then, @DrSturg breaks down the techniques of investigative journalism, a struggling but vital part of a news organization's work.

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Join DrSturg to explore the complex relationship between journalism and bureaucracy. From the history of the spoils system and civil service reform to modern challenges like restricted access and regulatory capture, this episode examines how journalism holds bureaucracies accountable while facing its own pressures

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Social media manipulators are using age-old communication tactics to keep you angry and to get you to click and share. In this episode of UnSpun, learn the tactics that can change everything from what you think to how you act.

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In this episode of UnSpun, we look at social proof—how the popularity of an idea, product, or belief can influence our decisions in ways we don’t even realize. From political mandates to viral crowdfunding campaigns, and even robots gaining our trust, we’ll uncover the hidden forces of social proof in our daily lives. With clips from newsmakers so you can try your skills, this episode will leave you questioning what you believe—and why.

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Test the murky waters of access journalism—the practice of prioritizing relationships with sources over journalistic objectivity. Dr. Sturg discusses cases including the downfall of Harvey Weinstein, a reflection on Trump’s media strategy, and Bob Woodward’s books, to explore how access can shape the stories you hear.

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There are complex dynamics to online anonymity and how we act when we think we won't get caught. From cyberbullying to support communities, discover how anonymous interactions shape your digital lives. Dr. Sturg uses research insights, real-world cases to give you practical strategies for responsible online engagement.

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Dr. Sturg gets into the question: Who should fact-check online information? Meta's recent decision to end its professional fact-checking program on Facebook and Instagram in favor of a community-based system sparked a significant debate. For years, professional fact-checkers with rigorous training have been the gatekeepers of truth, meticulously investigating claims and ensuring accuracy with a systematic approach.

Now, Meta is shifting to a system similar to X's (formerly Twitter) Community Notes, relying on the wisdom of the crowd. Is this a huge mistake? Join for a look at what reseearch has found about the pros and cons of professional versus community-based fact-checking, and what this shift means for the future of online information integrity.

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In this week's episode of UnSpun, Inspired by the tragic New Year's attack in New Orleans, we explore the research on how social media can create echo chambers that manipulate and radicalize people online. But it's not all doom and gloom—we also highlight the positive aspects of social media, such as connecting with loved ones, finding communities, and online organizing. Join DrSturg as we discuss mindful consumption, setting boundaries, and building resilience to live a better digital life..

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If you feel like we're divided, you're not wrong. Dr. Sturg takes you though the strategic manipulation of public opinion through the wedge strategy.

This week, explore how politicians deliberately create and weaponize wedge issues to manipulate voter emotions, exploit social tensions, and even reshape the political landscape.

From the civil rights movement to the COVID-19 pandemic, this episode provides a comprehensive analysis of how political actors try to force you onto a team and shows you how to recognize when you're being manipulated.

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