Social Norms and Narrative
Disinformation and AI amplify “us vs. them” stories, eroding shared truths and common ground.
Pro-authoritarian narratives have gained considerable traction by leveraging a fragmented social media landscape, complacent and self-interested big tech, and, most recently, AI to expedite the production of misinformation and disinformation. Divisive “us vs them” messaging has served as both a precondition for and the result of these narratives taking root, creating a vicious circle. Divided groups live in parallel realities with few shared facts and norms, and spaces where polarized groups can meet to build trust and common ground are sparse. Culture and history are also being redefined in support of narrow interests and a limited vision of American identity. Knowledge, science, and truth are being systematically undermined to enable the rapid spread of divisive and dangerous narratives.