Disinformation: The Nature of Facts and Lies in the Post-Truth Era by Donald A. Barclay

This book has it all. It explores concepts of truth, the shaping of human cognition, the history of digital technology, how technology might be reshaping cognition, the history of propaganda, how intellectual property impacts access to information, and our cultural obsession with conspiracy theories! Phew. What I especially loved about this book is that it isn’t moralizing any of these issues, which so often carry heavy moral and political baggage. It really focuses on trying to understand how all of these pieces play a role in this “post-truth era” we’ve found ourselves in.

The book is so well-written and well-researched, and it’s accessible!! This doesn’t seem to be written only for academics—anyone could pick this up and learn a lot. (In fact, I’m teaching Ethics and Information Technology this and next semester, and I’m considering assigning a chapter or two to my class in the spring.)

I think it’s important to revisit rationality and cognition as information technology continues to develop. The author does a fantastic job recognizing the seriousness of how our obtaining facts and truth can’t seem to keep up with the technological landscape, but *not* fear-mongering to get the point across. It’s (appropriately) matter-of-fact and maybe even a little optimistic. And while the book covers a lot of ground, I didn’t find it to be too overwhelming. It’s very concise.

And, as a PhD student in philosophy, I was especially happy that Barclay begins chapter 1 with a discussion of the value of philosophy. 🥹 “The world needs philosophers” warmed my lil philosophy heart. 🥰

📖: (5/5) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️