The Great Facade: How Surveillance Capitalism Almost Toppled the World’s Greatest Democracy and the European Union

John Villanueva

We’ve all witnessed the changes in public and personal discourse and civility since the 2016 presidential election. Unfortunately, it seems as if the country is plunging into a downward spiral, and the death of reason is inevitable.  How did we get here?  Together, we will examine the intersections and impacts of foreign and domestic influence operations, conspiracy theories, political malpractice, and social media on the nation’s mental health and well-being.  We will also discuss what can and should be done to shield the nation from the harmful effects of misinformation, disinformation, and revisionist history.

A/V requirements: Internet Access, Laptop, LCD Projector, Screen, White Board, and Markers