The Disinformation Age

This insightful examination explores the historical roots of disinformation in the U.S., highlighting its impact on democracy and institutional legitimacy in The Disinformation Age.

Understanding the post-fact era involves a deep dive into more than just foreign interference or the rise of social media. In The Disinformation Age, the authors meticulously examine the origins and mechanics of the disinformation system in the United States, revealing how various political strategies and communication practices have eroded the foundations of authoritative democratic institutions. This exploration illustrates the intentional spread of falsehoods, which not only attacks marginalized communities and press freedoms but also challenges the rule of law, ultimately undermining the norms and values that sustain institutional legitimacy and political stability.

The book gathers an impressive array of historians, political scientists, and communication scholars who analyze the historical and political roots of the post-fact information landscape. While primarily focused on the United States, the insights provided have implications for democracies worldwide. Bennett and Livingston set the stage by highlighting the long-standing efforts by political and business entities to weaken authoritative institutions, including political parties, elections, public agencies, and independent journalism.

Additionally, the distinguished contributors delve into the historical pathways and operational dynamics of disinformation, addressing the pressing policy challenges that arise from this phenomenon. They also discuss the vital role of legacy media in enhancing public communication. The Disinformation Age serves as a crucial resource for understanding how disinformation propagated by partisan organizations and media can jeopardize the institutional legitimacy essential for a healthy democracy.