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Brett Kavanaugh and the Information Terrorists Trying to Reshape America
Article

Brett Kavanaugh and the Information Terrorists Trying to Reshape America

Wired, 2018

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Editorial Rating

8

Qualities

  • Controversial
  • Innovative
  • Background

Recommendation

Discussion about fake news and the spread of disinformation is often very technology-centric, with the human element receiving short shrift. As Molly McKew argues in Wired, however, the powerful impact of right-wing conspiracy theories on American politics in recent years is not due to bots and trolls alone. Her compelling essay explains how seemingly outlandish conspiracy theories manage to gain traction among millions of Americans, and how a group of well-organized fringe activists has succeeded in captivating the political discourse. 

Take-Aways

  • A well-organized group of bloggers, social media activists and right-wing media outlets enabled Brett Kavanaugh’s confirmation to the US Supreme Court by attacking and discrediting Christine Blasey Ford. 
  • Kavanaugh’s defenders invoked themes that resonated among American conservatives, including anti-feminism and the alleged oppression of white men.
  • The right-wing disinformation network came into existence after “Gamergate,” which provoked a backlash against political correctness. 

About the Author

Molly McKew is a foreign policy and strategy consultant, and an expert on information warfare.