Post-Truth Politics: Can Democracy Survive Disinformation?

How is disinformation reshaping democratic societies? Experts Camille François, Nikole Hannah-Jones, and Piotr Smolar, under the guidance of moderator Steve Clemons, dissected the dangers posed by the spread of falsehoods in the digital age.
The concept ‘post-truth’ describes the cocktail of disinformation and devaluation of facts that Western democracies are facing. Disinformation, facilitated by AI, is polarizing public opinion, promoting violent extremism and hate speech and, ultimately, undermining our democracies and diminishing trust in our electoral and judicial systems. How can we measure the threat of disinformation and what tools do we have to offset its corrosive effects? How can we adjust our behaviors and mindset --both as individuals and as a society -- to temper its destruction?
This event explored:
The evolving nature of false information online
Social media’s dual role in spreading and combating disinformation
Challenges in promoting critical thinking and media literacy
International perspectives on protecting democratic discourse
The global context and impact of disinformation campaigns
Complexities of communicating facts in a “post-truth” environment
“Democracy in an Age of Uncertainty: French and American Perspectives,” a public discussion series from Villa Albertine taking place in person in and around Washington, DC, gives a voice to French and American experts and US-based audiences alike on topics as diverse as disinformation, civic and youth engagement, and more. Kicking off in 2024, the series will continue through 2026, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence.
Explore all “Democracy in an Age of Uncertainty” events here: villa-albertin...
“Democracy in an Age of Uncertainty: French and American Perspectives” is made possible thanks to the Judy and Peter Blum Kovler Foundation.