Who’s Holding the Megaphone?

1:25 - 2:15 p.m., Wednesday, September 30, 2020
virtual session

According to a study published in the journal Science, a false story is more likely to go viral than a true story. It also reaches 1,500 people six times more quickly. Are you aware of the voices and motives of those who affect you and your decisions? Since there is a vast amount of data available, your need to critically assess information is more important than ever. Some voices may be louder or more obvious than others based on privilege and access. Understanding whose voices are given a bigger amplifier may help people determine how to interpret what they hear. How may the person holding the megaphone be challenged to spread accurate information? In the era of widely dispersed false information, how do you separate fact from fiction or bias from objectivity? How can you use your critical-thinking skills to have the greatest impact with your voice?

Panel Moderator:  Devin Schehrer, MSU Residence Life, Housing & Dining Services

Panel Producer:  Vadim Putzu, MSU College of Humanities and Public Affairs

  • Live closed captioning is provided.    

Presenters

Poet Laureate of Missouri, Editor and General Manager Karen Craigo

Karen Craigo

Poet Laureate of Missouri, Editor and General Manager
The Marshfield Mail

Professor of Educational Foundations Brian Dotts

Brian Dotts

Professor of Educational Foundations
University of Georgia

Chair of Veterinary Care and Dir of Research & Conservation Dennis Schmitt

Dennis Schmitt

Chair of Veterinary Care and Dir of Research & Conservation
Ringling Bros. Center for Elephant Conservation

Writer, Director, Creative J. Anthony Smith

J. Anthony Smith

Writer, Director, Creative
Neosoul Films and Entertainment