Disinformation

photo credit: BBC.com

Disinformation in the Russia-Ukraine War

Disinformation has played a critical role in the Russia-Ukraine war, serving as a tool for shaping narratives, influencing public opinion, and securing support both domestically and internationally. While both sides have engaged in information warfare, Russia's efforts have been more widespread and sophisticated. This article explores how propaganda, manipulated data, cyber hacking, and counter-propaganda have been used in the conflict, examining the implications of disinformation in the broader geopolitical landscape.

Propaganda and Fake News

One of the most pervasive forms of disinformation in the Russia-Ukraine war has been the spread of propaganda and fake news. Russia has consistently promoted false narratives to justify its actions and frame Ukraine as an existential threat. One of the most damaging claims is that Ukraine is a neo-Nazi state that is committing genocide against Russian speakers, particularly in the Donbas region. This narrative has been pushed in Russian state media, reinforcing support for the invasion among the Russian populace and fostering international sympathy in regions with historical ties to Russia.

This type of propaganda leverages historical traumas and existing tensions to stoke fear and justify aggression. By painting Ukraine as a fascist, oppressive regime, Russia aims to galvanize its citizens and build a moral imperative for its military actions. This narrative has been debunked numerous times by independent analysts and international observers, but it continues to persist in certain media outlets, creating a significant challenge in countering false information.

Manipulated Data

Manipulating data to support geopolitical agendas has also been a hallmark of the disinformation campaign in the Russia-Ukraine war. This often involves distorting or fabricating statistics to paint a skewed picture of the conflict. Russia has used false casualty figures, inflated success rates of military operations, and even fabricated economic data to maintain the appearance of strength and control.

In some cases, data manipulation is subtle, such as altering the context of a statistic or selectively releasing information that supports a particular narrative. For example, Russian media has downplayed its own military losses while exaggerating Ukrainian casualties to weaken Ukrainian morale and present the Russian military as overwhelmingly dominant. This tactic not only misleads the public but also muddies the waters for independent analysts trying to understand the true scope of the war.

Cyber Hacking and Social Media

Cyber hacking and the use of social media platforms have been instrumental in spreading disinformation and exacerbating divisions within Western societies. Russia has a long history of using cyberattacks to destabilize its adversaries, and the Ukraine conflict is no exception. Russian cyber units have targeted Ukrainian government systems, military communications, and critical infrastructure with the aim of disrupting operations and spreading confusion.

Social media platforms, particularly Facebook, Twitter, and Telegram, have been weaponized to spread false information, manipulate public opinion, and amplify divisions. Pro-Russian bots and trolls flood platforms with misleading content, conspiracy theories, and fake news, aimed at weakening international support for Ukraine and sowing discord in NATO countries. These efforts are designed to exploit existing societal fractures and fuel polarization, making it harder for countries to form a unified stance against Russian aggression.

Patriotic Stories

Both Ukraine and Russia have used patriotic stories to boost morale and maintain public support during the conflict. In times of war, there is a natural tendency for governments to emphasize stories of heroism and success, even if those stories are exaggerated or not entirely true. In Ukraine, there have been reports of over-optimistic portrayals of military victories and underestimations of Russian advances in order to maintain morale and encourage continued resistance.

While these stories may serve a short-term purpose in keeping spirits high, they also pose risks. When overly optimistic narratives collide with harsh realities, they can lead to disillusionment and a loss of trust in the government and media. However, in the context of a fight for survival, patriotic stories have been essential in galvanizing the Ukrainian public and securing international solidarity with their cause.

Counter-Propaganda

Countering Russian disinformation has been a priority for Ukraine and its international allies. Western nations and Ukrainian officials have launched counter-propaganda efforts to expose the falsehoods propagated by Russian state media and pro-Russian influencers. These efforts include fact-checking initiatives, debunking false claims, and leveraging social media to present alternative narratives that reflect the on-ground realities of the conflict.

Western media outlets, as well as Ukrainian government spokespeople, have been instrumental in exposing Russian disinformation campaigns. For instance, they have highlighted the lack of evidence supporting Russia's claims of Ukrainian "neo-Nazism" and genocide, while also shining a light on the human rights abuses committed by Russian forces. However, the challenge with counter-propaganda is that it often struggles to reach those who are already entrenched in the disinformation ecosystem, making it a continuous battle for truth.

Global Impact

The impact of disinformation in the Russia-Ukraine war has been felt on a global scale. Russian efforts to control the narrative have influenced public perceptions and political stances not only in Russia but also in parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Countries with significant Russian influence have been swayed by the disinformation campaign, leading to varying degrees of support for Russia's actions or a more neutral stance on the conflict.

In the West, Russian disinformation has exacerbated existing divisions within society, particularly around issues such as NATO involvement, refugee policies, and economic sanctions. By inflaming these divisions, Russia seeks to weaken Western resolve and diminish the effectiveness of coordinated responses to its aggression.

At the same time, Ukraine has garnered significant international support by successfully countering Russian disinformation and emphasizing the country's struggle for sovereignty and democracy. Ukraine’s ability to win the information war, especially in Western nations, has been pivotal in securing military aid, sanctions against Russia, and political backing.

Conclusion

Disinformation has become a central battlefield in the Russia-Ukraine war, with both sides employing various tactics to shape public opinion and maintain control over the narrative. While Ukraine has had some success in countering Russian disinformation and securing global support, Russia’s sophisticated propaganda efforts continue to pose significant challenges. The use of propaganda, manipulated data, cyber hacking, and patriotic stories underscores the importance of digital literacy and the need for continuous vigilance in the face of information warfare. As the conflict drags on, the global community must remain steadfast in combating disinformation and supporting truth-based narratives.

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 9/10/2024 

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Globalism and the Deep State

Exposing the Deep State: Joel Skousen's Insights on Globalist Agendas and Conspiracies

Joel Skousen, a prominent voice on deep state conspiracies and globalist control, recently spoke to an audience of about 30 people in Orem, Utah. During his talk, Skousen detailed his belief in a "big picture" conspiracy orchestrated by globalists who have deeply embedded themselves within the U.S. government. He touched on historical events, controversial figures, and current global conflicts, framing them as part of a long-standing agenda to manipulate political outcomes and advance globalism.

Skousen is known for his views on deep state conspiracies and globalist control. He believes that there is a "big picture" conspiracy led by the deep state, which he sees as a controlling arm of globalists who have managed to control the government. According to Skousen, it is too late to change this, as the deep state has embedded itself deeply within the political system, not just through holdover bureaucrats but through long-standing globalist agendas.

He claims that figures like John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr. were both killed under deep state orders. Donald Trump withheld certain files concerning the JFK assassination because he was convinced revealing them would harm the nation. Skousen views Trump as a populist who appeals to conservatives but argues that Trump, like many other politicians, is surrounded by deep state operatives and is not fully aware of true conservative values. He also suggests that Trump has not deeply studied conspiracy theories, relying instead on mainstream sources like Fox News.

Skousen also touches on various historical and current events, asserting that globalists have manipulated political outcomes for over a century. He mentions that over 300 globalist organizations, such as the Bilderberg Group and the Aspen Institute, are working towards globalism, often using international crises, like wars, to advance their agenda. He suggests that historical figures like Woodrow Wilson were chosen by globalists, with manipulated events such as Taft's downfall and Teddy Roosevelt's independent run, leading to Wilson's election.

He believes that the deep state orchestrated 9/11 as a false flag operation, using drone aircraft and controlled demolitions to achieve their goals. Skousen claims that globalists have continuously worked to discredit governments, spread communism, and promote globalism through wars, economic manipulation, and other means.

Finally, Skousen is skeptical of many mainstream narratives, including those surrounding Russia, China, and global conflicts. He sees globalists as orchestrating most major events and believes that conservatives and constitutionalists are a small minority, with much of the population losing their values through public education and other influences such as the media. He argues that the only way to stop this globalist agenda is through significant, grassroots political change, though he is pessimistic about the possibility of such a change occurring under current conditions.

Here is a list of some of Joel Skousen's books available on Amazon and the American Book Warehouse:

1. Strategic Relocation: North American Guide to Safe Places - A comprehensive guide on the safest places to live in North America, addressing potential threats and strategies for relocation.
2. The Secure Home - Focuses on how to create a high-security, self-sufficient residence or retreat.
3. The High Security Shelter - Offers guidance on implementing a multi-purpose safe room in the home.
4. The Still Small Voice of Conscience - Discusses moral and ethical considerations in decision-making.
5. 10 Packs for Survival - A pamphlet on essential storage and preparedness items.

These books reflect Skousen’s expertise in security and preparedness, offering practical advice for those interested in personal safety and self-sufficiency.

Subscribe to Skousen's weekly news update at World Affairs Brief.

Attitudes Toward Reporting

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How Personal Experience Shapes Understanding and Trust in Journalism

Personal experience with journalism plays a crucial role in shaping an individual's understanding of news processes and concepts. Whether someone has been covered or interviewed in the news, or has received some formal education in journalism, these experiences significantly influence how they perceive and trust the media.

One of the most impactful ways individuals engage with journalism is through educational settings. Whether taking a journalism course or participating in student-run media, these experiences provide foundational knowledge about the workings of the media. According to data from a study by the Media Insight Project, about a quarter of people have participated in a school publication, while only 16% have taken a class on media or news literacy. These educational experiences help individuals become more familiar with journalistic terms and concepts. For example, those who have taken a class on media literacy are more likely to understand how journalists use anonymous sources compared to those without such education (65% vs. 57%).

Interestingly, the study shows that individuals with educational experience in journalism are generally more familiar with various journalistic terms and concepts. For example, people who participated in school media or took a journalism class are more likely to understand the difference between a news story and a press release, or between an editorial and a news story. This familiarity extends to the ability to differentiate between opinion and news content, which is crucial in today’s media landscape where these boundaries can sometimes blur.

However, the study also highlights that educational experience does not necessarily correlate with higher trust in the media or a more favorable view of its direction. Even those who have engaged with journalism through education share similar levels of skepticism about the media's trajectory as those without such experience. This suggests that while education may enhance understanding, it does not necessarily lead to increased trust in media institutions.

Beyond educational experiences, personal interactions with journalism—such as being interviewed or having firsthand knowledge of a news story—also shape people's views. The study found that most people's direct experience with the news comes from being consumers rather than creators of content. For instance, nearly three-quarters of the public have encountered journalism about a topic they are knowledgeable about, such as their town or hobby. Additionally, 60% have witnessed or experienced something that was later covered by a news organization.

These personal interactions with journalism generally leave people with a positive impression. Among those who have been interviewed by a journalist, nearly a third felt that the reporting was entirely accurate, and 81% believed the reporting was unbiased and fair. This suggests that when individuals have direct involvement in news coverage, they tend to view the reporting more favorably, likely because they have a clearer understanding of the context and nuances of the story.

In conclusion, personal experience with journalism, whether through education or direct interaction, significantly influences how individuals understand and trust the media. While educational experiences enhance familiarity with journalistic concepts, they do not necessarily increase trust in the media. Direct interactions, on the other hand, often result in a more positive view of news coverage. These findings highlight the importance of media literacy education and the value of direct engagement with journalism in fostering a more informed and critical public.

Source: How does personal experience with news affect a person's views? - American Press Institute

Media Role in Undermining Traditional Values

Unraveling the Globalist Agenda: The Intersection of Social Credit Systems and the Assault on Family Values

In recent years, there has been a growing concern over the ways in which social credit systems and globalist agendas intersect, particularly in their impact on societal values and family structures. Larry Schweikart, a historian and commentator, has highlighted how these developments reflect a deeper, more insidious agenda aimed at undermining traditional institutions, including the family.

One of the most alarming aspects of this agenda is the rise of the transsexual movement, which, according to Schweikart, took off in the wake of the Obergefell decision on homosexual marriages. While initially dismissed by many as a fringe movement, it rapidly gained momentum, leading to increasingly radical policies and laws. By 2023, California had enacted legislation that allowed the state to take children away from parents who interfered with their "gender identity." This represented a significant escalation in the assault on traditional family values, with schools even permitting children to change their gender without their parents' knowledge. The movement's proponents viewed parents and families as major obstacles to the advancement of transgenderism, leading to calls to "abolish the family" altogether.

The globalist agenda, as Schweikart argues, is not just a political or social movement but one with a dark spiritual dimension. This is evident in the push for "sexual rights" for children, an effort that not only undermines parental rights but also involves grooming young people for exploitation. Organizations like the International Planned Parenthood Federation, the World Health Organization, and the United Nations have promoted programs emphasizing children as "sexual beings" with their own sexual rights, independent of their maturity. These initiatives, which are part of the broader "2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development," are well-funded and coordinated, aiming to advance transgenderism and abortion on a global scale.

The role of the media in this assault on the family cannot be understated. According to Larry Schweikart, mainstream media outlets have played a pivotal role in normalizing and promoting the transsexual movement and other elements of the globalist agenda. Through a combination of selective reporting, sensationalism, and outright propaganda, the media has managed to shape public opinion, often portraying traditional family values as outdated or even oppressive. This concerted effort to marginalize dissenting voices has been crucial in advancing the narrative that supports the breakdown of the family unit. By glamorizing alternative lifestyles and demonizing those who stand in opposition, the media has become a powerful tool in the hands of those seeking to undermine the foundational principles of society. This manipulation of information and public discourse serves to further entrench the globalist agenda, making it increasingly difficult for traditional values to find a platform in the public sphere.

Schweikart also points to the troubling connections between social credit systems and these authoritarian trends. The integration of credit systems with the transsexual movement has led to new forms of control over children, particularly during the remote learning periods of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Biden administration's response to parental activism, particularly through the "Moms for Liberty" group, was to label these concerned parents as "terrorists" under the Patriot Act, further highlighting the growing divide between the government and families.

These trends are part of a broader, global phenomenon. The decline in birth rates, driven by factors such as birth control, rising affluence, and a cultural shift away from large families, has created what experts warn is a "demographic time bomb." In the United States, the women's movement has played a significant role in downplaying and even demonizing childbearing, contributing to a record low birth rate in 2019. 

Schweikart argues that these developments are not coincidental but rather part of a deliberate, anti-Christian, and anti-God agenda pushed by global elites. The increasing visibility of pagan and satanic imagery in public ceremonies and statues, such as those at the Gotthard Base Railroad Tunnel and the Strasbourg Parliament building, is seen as a blatant display of the globalists' true spiritual colors. These symbols and rituals are not accidental; they are clear, overt statements of the globalist agenda, which seeks to replace traditional spirituality with a new, darker belief system.

In conclusion, the intersection of social credit systems, globalist agendas, and the transsexual movement represents a profound threat to traditional family values and spiritual beliefs. As Schweikart warns, these developments are not just political or social trends but part of a larger, more sinister plan that seeks to undermine the very foundations of society.

Source: Schweikart, L. (2024). A Patriot's History of Globalism: Its Rise and Decline [Kindle iOS version]. Retrieved from Amazon.com

Psychological Bioterrorism

Media Manipulation: How Fear of Avian Influenza Fuels Psychological Bioterrorism

The recent alarm surrounding the H5N1 Avian Influenza strain highlights the media's powerful role in shaping public perception and behavior. While the World Health Organization (WHO) has long warned of a potential "Disease X," Dr. Robert Malone says the current fear being promoted around this bird flu strain is exaggerated and does not reflect the actual threat to human health. To the best of his knowledge, there have been no documented human deaths from this strain, and there is no evidence that it is being transmitted from human to human in a sustained manner. This narrative, driven by media outlets, is an example of what he calls "Psychological Bioterrorism."

Media plays a crucial role in Psychological Bioterrorism, a strategy that leverages fear of infectious diseases to manipulate populations. This method is highly effective because it creates a state of heightened anxiety and fear, driven by constant media coverage that often lacks context or critical analysis. Historical pandemics, such as the 1918 Spanish Influenza, are frequently cited in media reports to justify current public health measures, despite the misleading nature of these comparisons. For instance, while the H1N1 virus did cause widespread illness in 1918, the mass deaths were more likely due to bacterial pneumonia and the misuse of aspirin, not the virus itself. However, this nuanced reality is often overlooked in media narratives that favor sensationalism over accuracy.

The recent focus on the H5N1 strain in poultry and wild birds demonstrates how media can be used to craft and sustain a Psychological Bioterrorism campaign. Despite the lack of evidence that this strain poses a significant threat to human health, media outlets have amplified the narrative, creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. This media-driven panic serves other agendas, such as promoting new vaccine technologies or justifying the culling of livestock under the guise of addressing climate change concerns.

The effectiveness of media in Psychological Bioterrorism lies in its ability to rapidly disseminate information and shape public opinion. Media outlets, whether traditional or digital, have the power to create a sense of vulnerability and helplessness among the public. When people are bombarded with alarming headlines and reports, they often feel that they have no control over the situation, which only intensifies their fear. This fear can then be manipulated to achieve various objectives, from financial gain to social control.

The actors behind these media campaigns are often hidden, making it difficult for the public to understand the true nature of the threat. Intelligence or security services, both domestic and foreign, may work with corporate interests or government bodies to promote these narratives. The media serves as the primary tool for spreading disinformation and amplifying the perceived threat, creating a feedback loop where fear begets more fear.

In the case of Avian Influenza, the media has played a pivotal role in sustaining the fear narrative. By continuously highlighting the potential dangers of the virus, often without sufficient evidence, the media has contributed to a climate of fear that benefits certain interests. This is not to say that the media is solely responsible; rather, it is a key player in a larger strategy of Psychological Bioterrorism that uses fear to manipulate the public.

In conclusion, the media's role in promoting the fear of Avian Influenza is a prime example of how Psychological Bioterrorism operates. The exaggerated threat serves hidden agendas that go beyond public health concerns, with media outlets playing a central role in shaping and sustaining the narrative. It is essential to critically evaluate the information being presented and to recognize the media's potential to manipulate public perception. By understanding these dynamics, we can better protect ourselves from the psychological and social damage caused by fear-driven narratives.

Source: Psychological Bioterrorism - by Robert W Malone MD, MS

Guiding Youth Through Uncertainty

 

Rising Distrust and Declining Faith: The Crisis Facing Young People in an Era of Misinformation

Introduction

In recent years, a growing sense of distrust in authority and a marked decline in religious faith among young people have contributed to a widespread crisis of confidence and purpose. This phenomenon, driven by various social, cultural, and political factors, is exacerbated by the influence of academic bias, social media, and climate change rhetoric. As young people navigate an increasingly complex world, their declining faith in traditional institutions and the rise of apocalyptic narratives are reshaping their outlook on life, leading to heightened anxiety, depression, and a sense of helplessness.

Distrust in Authority and Declining Faith

The decline in religious faith, particularly Christianity and Judaism, is closely linked to a broader distrust in authority and facts. Larry Schweikart argues that this distrust is a key goal of globalist agendas, which seek to create a population that is more easily manipulated and depressed. Jean Twenge's research highlights the correlation between the increase in anxiety and depression among younger Americans, their growing use of social media, and their decreasing levels of religious observance. The erosion of faith has left many young people vulnerable to despair and a lack of purpose, as they no longer have the spiritual or communal support systems that once provided stability.

Social Media and Perceptions of Reality

Social media plays a significant role in shaping the perceptions and attitudes of young people. Schweikart notes that social media often presents a skewed view of others' income and success, leading to unrealistic expectations and dissatisfaction. The constant comparison with seemingly more successful peers exacerbates feelings of inadequacy and disillusionment. This "perception gap" fuels discontent and supports the notion that the system is inherently unfair, making young people more susceptible to calls for government intervention to address perceived inequalities.

The Role of Academic Bias

Academic bias further contributes to the erosion of trust in traditional institutions. Schweikart points out that academic journals, particularly those supporting the global warming thesis, act as gatekeepers by suppressing contradictory evidence and promoting biased research. For instance, Patrick Brown from Johns Hopkins University revealed that he had to exclude critical data on wildfires not being caused by climate change to get his work published in a prestigious journal. This bias, combined with researchers' dependence on government funding, undermines the credibility of scientific inquiry and reinforces the prevailing narratives that align with political and ideological agendas.

The Impact of Climate Change Rhetoric

The apocalyptic rhetoric surrounding climate change is another significant factor contributing to the despair and disillusionment among young people. Schweikart argues that the constant drumbeat of catastrophic predictions, pushed by international organizations like the World Economic Forum (WEF) and the UN, creates a pervasive sense of hopelessness. Young people, who are repeatedly told that the world will end within a decade, are left feeling helpless and unable to plan for the future. This rhetoric, rather than motivating constructive action, instead fosters a culture of defeatism and resignation.

Conclusion

The rising distrust in authority, combined with the decline in religious faith, has created a generation of young people who are increasingly anxious, disillusioned, and vulnerable to manipulation. Social media, academic bias, and climate change rhetoric have all played significant roles in shaping this crisis. As young people struggle to find meaning and purpose in a world that often seems hostile and unforgiving, it is crucial to address the underlying causes of this crisis and provide the support and guidance needed to rebuild trust, restore faith, and promote a more balanced and hopeful outlook on life.

Source: Schweikart, L. (2024). A Patriot's History of Globalism: Its Rise and Decline [Kindle iOS version]. Retrieved from Amazon.com

Globalists and Global Warming

The Globalist Agenda Behind Climate Change: Analyzing the Paris Agreement and Its Economic Implications

Globalists, like those at the World Economic Forum (WEF) led by Klaus Schwab, have weaponized the issue of "climate change" as a means to push for global governance and curtail economic growth in wealthy Western nations. Schweikart argues that the climate change agenda, embodied in international agreements such as the United Nations' Paris Agreement, is less about environmental protection and more about advancing a socio-political agenda aimed at redistributing wealth and weakening capitalist economies.

Schweikart critiques the Paris Agreement, describing it as a tool for globalists to impose restrictive economic policies on Western nations under the guise of saving the planet. He questions the scientific validity of claims that human activity is the primary driver of global warming, suggesting instead that natural factors, such as the Earth's relationship with the sun, could be responsible. Schweikart also raises the possibility that a warmer Earth might not be as catastrophic as claimed and could even have some benefits.

In the U.S., Schweikart points to the Obama administration’s decision to join the Paris Agreement without Senate ratification as an overreach, reflecting the influence of globalist ideology. He contrasts this with President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the agreement, which Schweikart views as a defense of American sovereignty and economic interests. However, he notes that President Biden quickly reversed Trump’s actions, rejoining the Paris Agreement and proposing even more aggressive goals, such as decarbonizing the power sector by 2035 and achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Schweikart argues that Biden’s plans are economically disastrous and logistically unfeasible, requiring massive investments in infrastructure, an unprecedented expansion of the power grid, and a significant increase in the engineering workforce. He estimates that these initiatives would cost trillions of dollars, result in job losses, and severely impact the GDP and household incomes. Furthermore, Schweikart highlights the impracticality of relying on renewable energy sources like wind and solar, noting their intermittency and the enormous backup required from non-renewable sources to maintain a stable power supply.

On the global stage, Schweikart criticizes countries like China and India for continuing to increase coal production and setting minimal emissions reduction targets, which he views as evidence that the Paris Agreement is not genuinely about reducing global emissions. Instead, he argues, the agreement is part of a broader globalist agenda to weaken Western economies while allowing developing nations to continue polluting.

Schweikart concludes by asserting that the climate change movement, as promoted by globalists, is based on a fraudulent hypothesis with no solid scientific foundation. He views it as a tool to undermine capitalism and impose a one-world government, rather than a genuine effort to address environmental issues.

Source: Schweikart, L. (2024). A Patriot's History of Globalism: Its Rise and Decline [Kindle iOS version]. Retrieved from Amazon.com