Frances Moore Lappé to Address Disinformation Crisis and Offer Hope at Praxis Peace Institute Event
Sonoma, CA – Renowned author and activist Frances Moore Lappé, a champion for democracy, peace, and conscious living, is set to deliver a compelling address titled “The Danger of Disinformation — But There is Still Hope” at a virtual event hosted by the Praxis Peace Institute on Friday, September 12th, at 4 p.m. PDT. The event promises to delve into the pervasive issue of disinformation, exploring its roots and potential remedies, while also offering a message of hope amidst the current climate of widespread misinformation. Lappé, a prolific author of 21 books, including the seminal “Diet for a Small Planet,” will draw on her extensive research and experience to illuminate the challenges and opportunities presented by the disinformation crisis. Those interested in attending can register for the event at www.praxispeace.org, with a fee of $15 for Praxis members and $20 for non-members.
Lappé’s work has consistently focused on empowering citizens to create more just and democratic societies. Her writings explore the concept of “living democracy,” which extends beyond mere governmental accountability to encompass a way of life that prioritizes human connection, meaning, and empowerment. Her latest book, “Crisis of Trust: How Democracies Protect Against Dangerous Lies,” published earlier this year, provides a timely and crucial analysis of the disinformation crisis gripping America. Lappé’s insights offer a roadmap for navigating the complex landscape of misinformation and safeguarding democratic values in an era of rampant falsehoods. The book examines the underlying causes of the current crisis and highlights lessons learned from other democracies successfully combating the spread of harmful lies and promoting truth. Her presentation at the Praxis event is expected to build upon these themes, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of the challenges and potential solutions to this critical issue.
The virtual event hosted by the Praxis Peace Institute marks a continuation of Lappé’s long-standing relationship with the organization. Having spoken in Sonoma on two previous occasions, and at a Praxis conference in Dubrovnik, Croatia in 2007, Lappé returns to the Praxis platform to address one of the most pressing issues of our time. The Praxis Peace Institute, known for its commitment to promoting peace, justice, and sustainability through education and advocacy, provides a fitting forum for Lappé’s timely message. Her expertise and passion for fostering informed and engaged citizenry will undoubtedly resonate with the Praxis community and contribute to a vital conversation about the future of democracy in the face of disinformation.
Lappé’s career has been marked by a deep commitment to social justice and a relentless pursuit of truth. Her groundbreaking book, “Diet for a Small Planet,” revolutionized the way people think about food and its impact on the world, exposing the political and economic forces driving world hunger. Her work challenges conventional narratives and empowers individuals to take action towards creating a more equitable and sustainable world. This dedication to uncovering hidden truths and empowering individuals to create positive change is central to her work on disinformation, a phenomenon that threatens to undermine democratic institutions and erode public trust.
In recognition of her impactful work, Lappé was awarded the Right Livelihood Award in 1987, often referred to as the “Alternative Nobel Prize.” This prestigious award acknowledges individuals and organizations contributing practical and exemplary solutions to pressing global challenges. Lappé received the award “for revealing the political and economic causes of world hunger and how citizens can help to remedy them.” This accolade highlights the significance of her contribution to global understanding of complex social issues and her ability to translate complex research into actionable strategies for positive change. Her work on disinformation continues this tradition of empowering citizens to confront complex challenges and create a more just and equitable future.
Beyond her prolific writing career, Lappé has also contributed to academic discourse through her work as a visiting scholar at the Center of Research on Social Change at the University of California, Berkeley, and at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Her academic engagements have allowed her to further explore the intersection of social change, democracy, and citizen engagement. Her upcoming presentation at the Praxis Peace Institute event promises to draw upon her extensive research and practical experience, offering a compelling and insightful analysis of the disinformation crisis and its implications for democracy. The event provides a unique opportunity for attendees to engage with one of the leading voices on the topic and gain valuable insights into how to protect and strengthen democratic values in an era of increasing misinformation.