Long-Read
— Elon Musk’s self-radicalisation stems from his reliance on X’s algorithm-curated feed, which amplified far-right narratives, creating a feedback loop that entrenched his beliefs and shaped his radical political discourse.
Long-Read
— National populism, fuelled by media-backed disinformation, anti-immigrant rhetoric, and libertarian ideologies, threatens democracies globally by eroding institutions, fostering fear, and exploiting divisions.
Analysis
— UK farmers have protested inheritance tax changes and financial pressures, resisting radical-right co-option. Distrust in government and tensions over net-zero targets risk escalating unless sustainable, fair solutions are implemented.
Social Media
— Two years post-Elon Musk’s Twitter takeover, advertisers increasingly view the platform as unsafe, risking ad revenue. While Musk’s supporters commend free speech moves, trust issues loom.
OPINION
— B. Jay Cooper rejects Trump due to his authoritarian rhetoric, dishonesty, and failure to deliver key promises. He argues Trump prioritises self-interest over national welfare and warns undecided voters against supporting him.
Conspiracy Theories
— Hurricane Milton’s impact on Florida spurred weather manipulation conspiracies, revealing a pattern: natural disasters can drive conspiracy theories. These theories hinder climate action, creating a self-perpetuating cycle of environmental denial.
US Politics
— Wisconsin Pastor Matthew Trewhella campaigns against abortion, gun laws, and the US government, using his affable demeanour and religious arguments to gain influence. Once a fringe figure, he is now courted by mainstream Republicans.
Elections 2024
— In the run-up to the 2024 elections, disinformation poses a significant threat to democracies worldwide, prompting concerns from major organisations. While some sceptics question its impact, evidence suggests misinformation can sway election outcomes, influence beliefs, and erode public trust.
Long-Read
— Brexit was expected to end the blame on the EU and foster political accountability. Yet, Brexiters like Truss, Anderson, and Braverman shift blame to globalism and wokeism, fuelling radical Brexitism, seeking new targets, and desiring to “smash the system.”
UK Politics
— Conservative MPs, like Liz Truss and Lee Anderson, use conspiracy rhetoric to appeal to audiences and build political brand, diverting attention from governance records. Truss’s blaming shadowy forces for her prime ministerial failures follows a familiar pattern.
2024 US Presidential Election
— In Republican primaries, voter perceptions of Biden’s 2020 election legitimacy may impact the 2024 race. Polls show Trump supporters doubting legitimacy, highlighting challenges for American democracy and accountability.
OPINION
— Taylor Swift, allegedly a government plant, is theorised by right-wing conspiracists to strategically endorse Joe Biden with boyfriend Travis Kelce before the November election.
Conspiracy Theories
— Liberal conspiracy theories, often dismissed as fringe, can be more damaging than their counterparts. The exaggeration of antisemitism in Labour and false Trump-Russia collusion claims showcase their negative impact.
UK Politics
— With a general election on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to curl up with one of these expert political book recommendations.
OPINION
— Global concerns escalate as U.S. Project 2025 promotes far-right Christian nationalism. In Britain, Suella Braverman’s inflammatory language towards migrants, the homeless, and protesters raises fears of the Conservative Party transforming into a far-right authoritarian entity.
OPINION
— The Conservative Party conference has revealed the Tories’ embrace of conspiracy theories, extremism, and threats to democracy. The Tory party is moving towards far-right ideologies, attacking trans people and migrants, posing a significant danger to democracy.
