In an era where digital platforms shape public perception, media innovator Steven Brill is taking center stage to address the critical issues of online misinformation. Known for his pioneering work in journalism and media entrepreneurship, Brill will share his insights at an event hosted by Investigative Post on October 22 at the Burchfield Penney Art Center.
Brill, co-founder of NewsGuard and author of The Death of Truth has been a vocal advocate for media literacy and transparency. His work focuses on the detrimental effects of social media, Artificial intelligence, and digital disinformation on public trust and societal cohesion.
Exploring the impact of digital disinformation
Brill’s presentation will delve into the complex landscape of digital disinformation, highlighting how various factors contribute to the spread of misinformation. He will discuss the role of federal communications law amendments that have enabled digital publishers to evade responsibility for content on their platforms. Additionally, he will explore how the business models of social media platforms have fueled polarization, dividing public opinion on critical issues such as vaccine safety, election integrity, and scientific facts.
The digital advertising ecosystem will also be under scrutiny, as Brill examines how it inadvertently funds Russian propaganda, healthcare frauds, and election hoaxes. He will discuss the challenges faced by platforms like Google and Facebook in policing bad actors and the role of artificial intelligence in amplifying disinformation, polarization, and alienation.
Empowering citizens to combat digital pollution
Brill’s talk will not only highlight the problems but also offer solutions. He will provide strategies for citizens and news consumers to identify misinformation and deepfakes, and advocate for policy changes to restore trust and truth in the digital age. The event will also feature a demonstration of NewsGuard AI, an innovative online service that curates reader-customized stories from credible news sources.
Sofia Rubinson, a senior editor at NewsGuard, will join Brill to discuss how NewsGuard rates online news outlets for credibility and accuracy. She will share insights into the rating process and name specific news outlets that have earned high or low ratings, including those based in the Buffalo area. Investigative Post has received a perfect score of 100 from NewsGuard, praised for its fact-based reporting and balanced perspectives.
Event details and community engagement
The event, scheduled for 7 p.m. on October 22 at the Burchfield Penney Art Center, 1300 Elmwood Ave., adjacent to Buffalo State University, promises to be an enlightening discussion. Tickets are available for $10 and can be purchased online. Copies of Brill’s book, The Death of Truth will be available for sale on site by Fitz Books.
Investigative Post Editor Jim Heaney, who will moderate the discussion, expressed enthusiasm about having Brill as a speaker. ‘His book is eye-opening, and his presentation will undoubtedly be as well,’ Heaney said. The event aims to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges posed by digital disinformation and inspire action towards a more informed and trustworthy digital landscape.
