The Deep Roots of Disinformation: How Identity, Power, and Systemic Inequality Fuel the Spread of False Narratives
The digital age has brought about an unprecedented proliferation of information, but alongside it, a surge in disinformation. This phenomenon, however, isn’t solely a product of technology. As Rachel Kuo, a University of Wisconsin professor specializing in race, social movements, gender, and technology, emphasizes, disinformation is deeply intertwined with power dynamics, identity, and systemic inequality. These factors dictate who disseminates disinformation, the methods they employ, and its resonance with various audiences. Kuo’s research sheds light on the complex interplay of these elements, offering crucial insights into how disinformation spreads and what can be done to combat it.
One of the key areas Kuo explores is the role of online extremism and its influence on political discourse. She argues against the common narrative of "radicalization" that portrays extremists as a fringe group separate from mainstream society. Instead, she posits that the roots of sexism, patriarchy, and white supremacy are deeply embedded in everyday culture. These underlying biases form the foundation upon which extremist beliefs flourish, normalizing harmful ideologies and making them more palatable to a wider audience. For instance, the rise of the "manosphere" and its influence on young men’s political leanings illustrates how pre-existing anxieties about masculinity and power can be exploited by disinformation campaigns. These narratives tap into a sense of perceived loss of privilege and fuel a desire to reclaim it, often through harmful and discriminatory means.
The media’s coverage of disinformation also comes under Kuo’s scrutiny. She critiques the tendency to focus solely on the technological aspects of disinformation spread, neglecting the crucial historical and cultural context. A more effective approach, she argues, would involve analyzing the power dynamics at play and understanding how truth and objectivity have been historically contested. Disinformation thrives because it resonates with people’s existing beliefs and experiences, even if those beliefs are based on misinformation or emotional manipulation. Journalists and platforms combating disinformation must move beyond a superficial pursuit of neutrality and delve deeper into the intersectional power dynamics that shape the narrative landscape.
Kuo’s work also focuses on practical strategies for countering disinformation within communities. She highlights a project with Filipino community groups in Chicago that uses oral history and intergenerational conversations to address the impact of disinformation within families. This approach emphasizes empathetic listening and understanding the reasons behind individuals’ susceptibility to false narratives. Rather than trying to immediately debunk or dismiss their beliefs, the goal is to understand the individual’s lived experiences, traumas, and the sources of their distrust in institutions. This method recognizes that people rarely identify as consumers of disinformation, and a confrontational approach is often counterproductive.
Building on the importance of understanding the individual’s perspective, Kuo emphasizes the importance of community-based organizing and political education. These efforts aim to establish common ground and shared understandings of power dynamics, enabling collective mobilization towards a more equitable future. This approach requires patience, cultural sensitivity, and a recognition of the language barriers that can hinder effective communication. Simple translations often fail to convey the necessary cultural context, highlighting the need for approaches tailored to specific communities and their unique experiences.
Kuo underscores the fact that disinformation isn’t a new phenomenon. It’s a long-standing tactic used to maintain power and control. The digital age has simply amplified its reach and impact. By understanding the historical and cultural context of disinformation, recognizing the interplay of power and identity, and employing empathetic communication strategies, we can begin to dismantle the narratives that divide us and build a more informed and resilient society.
Kuo’s work provides a crucial framework for understanding the complex phenomenon of disinformation. Her emphasis on power dynamics, identity, and systemic inequality offers a nuanced perspective that moves beyond simplistic technological solutions. By addressing the root causes of disinformation and employing community-based strategies, we can begin to build a more resilient information ecosystem and foster a more just and equitable society.
