Discerning Truth in the AI Era (Michelle and Ryan)

In this episode, Ryan and Michelle dive into the critical topic of disinformation, explaining its distinction from misinformation. They explore the historical context of disinformation, its modern amplification through technology like generative AI and DeepFakes, and the real-world impacts these technologies have already had. The discussion highlights the complexities of identifying and combating disinformation, the role of media literacy, and the importance of structural changes and educational reform. The episode underscores the necessity for vigilance, critical thinking, and informed consumption of information in the digital age.Click here to view the episode transcript. ReferencesAlba, D. (2023, May 22). Fake image of Pentagon explosion goes viral, briefly spooks markets. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/22/technology/pentagon-explosion-ai-image.htmlBulger, M., & Davison, P. (2018). The promises, challenges, and futures of media literacy. Journal of Media Literacy Education, 10(1), 1-21. https://digitalcommons.uri.edu/jmle/vol10/iss1/1/Graham, T. (2023). The incredible creativity of deepfakes — and the worrying future of AI [Video]. TED Conferences. https://www.ted.com/talks/tom_graham_the_incredible_creativity_of_deepfakes_and_the_worrying_future_of_aiJohnson, E., & Darnovsky, M. (2020). The disinformation dilemma [Audio podcast episode]. In Brave New Planet (Episode 2). Pushkin Industries.  https://bravenewplanet.fm/episodes/the-disinformation-dilemmaMarcelo, P. (2023, May 23). AI-generated image of Pentagon explosion triggers brief stock market dip. Associated Press. https://apnews.com/article/pentagon-explosion-misinformation-stock-market-aiSeitz-Wald, A., & Memoli, M. (2024, January 22). Fake Joe Biden robocall tells New Hampshire Democrats not to vote Tuesday. NBC News.  https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2024-election/fake-joe-biden-robocall-tells-new-hampshire-democrats-not-voteSpies, S. (2020). Producers of disinformation. MediaWell. https://mediawell.ssrc.org/research-reviews/producers-of-disinformation/