Disinformation

Disinformation deriving from manipulative rhetoric, imagery, and other forms of spectacle has only increased over time and is cause for growing concern. In this course we will consider various forms of disinformation and how they have been used through history, beginning with classical antiquity through the present day. Students will explore works of literature, philosophy, and art by taking a deep dive into the practices that gave rise to the internet, investigating conspiracy theories, and unpacking the epistemology of AI. We will also discuss political propaganda and commercial showmanship as we ponder the thin line between truth and fiction, develop new toolkits for understanding the nature of information and persuasion, and come to terms with how we may gain knowledge and wisdom in our lifetimes.