Information, Misinformation, Disinformation and Truth: What’s at Stake?

Thanks to the internet, social media, and mobile devices, information and connection are at our fingertips. Yet, these same technologies are being leveraged to sow confusion, disruption and polarization.

Recent polls show that 72% of Americans believe disinformation — deliberately misleading or biased information, manipulated narrative or facts — is a major problem. Deception and manipulation of news and information pre-date the internet, but its acceleration, reach and scale are greater on the web. It represents a threat to our society and democracy, undermines elections, public health, national security, brands, trust in media, science, government and religious institutions, and, most fundamentally, the wellbeing of individuals and communities.

So, how do we get to the truth of this complex issue and restore trust?

Join us on Wednesday, March 2nd from 1-2 EST for a conversation among diverse leaders about this complicated issue, its causes, and the reasons why it is hard to agree on what is true and build consensus on collective solutions. Participants Dr. Krishnan Narasimhan, chair of Doctors for America, Hillari Lombard, host of Moderate Party podcast, and the Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III, senior pastor of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, IL, will examine the impact digital disinformation has on various communities, including BIPOC, historically marginalized, and faith-based communities. They will explore how disinformation intersects with public health, religion and our daily lives and address how we can reduce its harms without infringing upon free speech and civil and human rights. The engaging conversation will conclude with a Q&A session from attendees and civic stakeholders who care about this issue.