Library:Invisible Rulers
| Invisible Rulers | |
|---|---|
| Author | Renée DiResta |
| First published | 2024 |
| ISBN | 978-1-5417-0337-7 unverified |
| Role | Analysis |
| Domains | Technology & Media Politics & Elections |
| Tactics | Propaganda Technique Manipulation |
Invisible Rulers is a 2024 book by Renée DiResta.
Summary
Renée DiResta, a researcher who studied online influence operations at the Stanford Internet Observatory, examines how influencers, algorithms and online crowds shape what large numbers of people believe. The book's subtitle is The People Who Turn Lies into Reality.
The new propagandists
DiResta argues that power over public opinion has shifted from traditional media to a combination of influencers, algorithms and engaged online crowds. She describes this as a system in which content creators and their audiences reinforce each other, rewarded by platforms that favor engagement.
Case studies
The book draws on DiResta's research into anti-vaccine campaigns, state-sponsored influence operations by Russia and others, and the online spread of election rumors. It also describes the campaigns against researchers, including herself, who studied misinformation, which accused them of censorship and led to lawsuits and congressional investigations.
Proposals
DiResta discusses changes to platform design, greater transparency and better public communication as ways to reduce the power of manipulative content without broad censorship.
Relevance to Bullshitopedia
The book explains how modern misinformation spreads through networks of influencers and audiences rather than central broadcasters. It is useful for understanding entries on election rumors and viral health claims.