Headline: Frances Moore Lappé Tackles Disinformation Crisis in Upcoming Praxis Peace Institute Webinar
Renowned author and activist Frances Moore Lappé, celebrated for her groundbreaking work on world hunger and democratic ideals, is set to address the pressing issue of disinformation in a webinar hosted by the Praxis Peace Institute. Scheduled for Friday, September 12th at 4:00 pm Pacific Time, the online event, titled “The Danger of Disinformation — but, there is still hope!”, promises a deep dive into the roots of the American disinformation crisis and explores potential solutions inspired by democracies leading the fight against harmful falsehoods.
Lappé, author or co-author of 21 books, including the seminal “Diet for a Small Planet”, brings a wealth of experience and insight to this critical discussion. Her latest publication, “Crisis of Trust: How Can Democracies Protect Against Dangerous Lies” (2023), serves as the cornerstone for the webinar, providing a framework for understanding the complexities of disinformation and its impact on democratic societies. Lappé’s work consistently emphasizes the interconnectedness of social and political systems, highlighting the importance of citizen engagement and accountable governance in fostering a healthy democracy.
Throughout her career, Lappé has consistently championed the idea of “living democracy,” a concept that extends beyond governmental structures to encompass a way of life aligned with core human needs for connection, meaning, and power. She argues that a thriving democracy requires not only institutional safeguards but also a cultural commitment to truth and open dialogue. This holistic approach underscores the urgency of addressing the disinformation crisis, not just as a political challenge, but as a societal imperative that impacts every facet of life.
The Praxis Peace Institute webinar provides a unique opportunity to hear Lappé’s analysis of the current disinformation landscape. The event will delve into the underlying factors contributing to the spread of misinformation, including the role of social media algorithms, the erosion of trust in traditional institutions, and the deliberate manipulation of information for political gain. Lappé’s insights promise to shed light on the mechanisms by which disinformation operates and the potential consequences for democratic values and social cohesion.
Furthermore, the webinar will explore actionable strategies for combating disinformation and promoting truth. Drawing on examples from democracies that have effectively tackled this challenge, Lappé will offer practical guidance for individuals, communities, and institutions seeking to navigate the information landscape and defend against the insidious effects of falsehoods. This exploration of real-world solutions offers a glimmer of hope amidst a seemingly overwhelming crisis, empowering participants to become active agents in the fight for truth.
This upcoming webinar marks a continuation of Lappé’s long-standing relationship with the Praxis Peace Institute. A recipient of the prestigious Right Livelihood Award (often referred to as the “Alternative Nobel”) and holder of 20 honorary doctorates, Lappé has previously spoken at Praxis events in Sonoma, California, and Dubrovnik, Croatia. Her return to the Praxis platform underscores the organization’s commitment to fostering dialogue and promoting peace through informed engagement with critical global issues. The webinar offers a valuable opportunity to engage with one of the leading voices on democracy, social justice, and the pursuit of truth in an era of rampant misinformation. Attendees can anticipate a thought-provoking discussion and actionable insights into mitigating the dangers of disinformation and strengthening the foundations of a healthy democracy. The registration fee for the webinar is $20 for the general public and $15 for Praxis members, further highlighting the organization’s dedication to making these crucial conversations accessible to a wide audience.