Fake News, Korach, and the Business of Blame

   This morning at Breakfast & a Class, we explored a fascinating and surprisingly timely lesson from Parashat Korach: the power of fake news, conspiracy theories, and the human tendency to blame others for our problems. Long before social media, podcasts, cable news, and internet influencers, Korach understood that outrage sells. By spreading false stories and stirring resentment, he convinced thousands of people to join a rebellion against Moshe Rabbeinu. But as Chazal reveal, the stories were never the real issue. The real issue was something much deeper.     Drawing on a powerful insight from Rabbi Yissocher Frand and the remarkable story of Ohn ben Peles and his wise wife, we examine why people are often attracted to narratives that tell them someone else is responsible for their failures, frustrations, and disappointments. We also discuss how modern media personalities, influencers, and conspiracy peddlers have turned outrage into a profitable business model, while the people consuming that content are often left angrier, more cynical, and no better off. This class challenges us to move beyond blame and ask the question that changed Ohn ben Peles’ life: “What is my responsibility?” A timely and thought-provoking lesson from the Torah for our generation.