Disinformation
The Issue
Disinformation, deliberately misleading and inaccurate information, undermines public’s ability to make informed decisions as much as the more frequently discussed practices of censorship and government and corporate secrecy. Although forged documents, government propaganda, deceptive advertising and other forms of disinformation are not new, current information technologies make it much easier to deceive the public.
Why It Matters
When people are misled, they make decisions that can cause them personal harm, whether financially, physically or emotionally, and can seriously subvert democratic decision-making.
Our Work
The Centre for Free Expression examines the nature, use and effects of disinformation to influence public opinion and personal choice. It fosters public discussion and education regarding information literacy and ways to achieve a more effective regulatory system.
Resources
CFE Film Series: Rashomon
Director: Akira Kurosawa
How is the public to know? When regulators lose sight of their public role
Panelists: Bruce Campbell, Linda McQuaig, Mark S. Winfield
Moderator: James L. Turk
CFE Film Series: Control Room
Director: Jehane Noujaim
CFE Film Series: The Thin Blue Line
Director: Errol Morris
Populism and Free Speech
By Jon Thompson
Professor Emeritus in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of New Brunswick
July 11, 2019