fake news – mackaycartoons

Tuesday September 17, 2024

September 17, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday September 17, 2024

How Conspiracy Theories Are Undermining Politics and Media

September 2, 2020

In recent years, the political landscape in both the United States and Canada has been increasingly shaped by a disturbing trend: the embrace and normalization of conspiracy theories and misinformation. This trend, often amplified by influential figures and social media, is not just a minor issue; it’s fundamentally altering how politics is conducted and how information is consumed. The term “sanewashing,” as coined by Rose Lemay, aptly describes the media’s frustrating tendency to rationalize and reframe nonsensical or harmful political rhetoric into something that appears coherent or legitimate. This phenomenon is not just a matter of media failure; it’s a reflection of a broader crisis in how we engage with and interpret political discourse.

The Hill Times: How to know when media are ‘sanewashing’ politics

July 21, 2020

The recent rise of Donald Trump’s rhetoric—characterized by baseless conspiracy theories and incendiary claims—has set a troubling precedent. Trump’s recent assertions, including bizarre allegations about Haitian immigrants eating pets and unfounded claims about debate rigging, have been met with varying responses from the media and political allies. As highlighted in articles from The Independent and The Washington Post, Trump’s embrace of such conspiracy theories is not an isolated issue but part of a broader strategy to galvanize his base by exploiting fear and misinformation. This strategy has not only fuelled division but has also prompted a disturbing trend where mainstream media and political figures attempt to rationalize or validate Trump’s outlandish claims, rather than challenging them outright.

Trump/Harris Debate, 2024

Take, for example, Trump’s claim about Haitian immigrants in Ohio—a falsehood so extreme that it was debunked by local police. Despite this, Trump repeated the claim during a debate, escalating its spread. This scenario reflects a growing pattern where misinformation is not merely reported but often amplified by media outlets and political figures who either fail to adequately counter it or, worse, contribute to its propagation. The comments from readers on this issue, expressing frustration at the way Trump’s claims are treated and amplified, underscore the deepening crisis of trust and coherence in political discourse.

September 9, 2023

In Canada, this troubling trend is mirrored by figures like Pierre Poilievre, who, much like Trump, has adopted conspiracy-laden rhetoric to energize his base. The “sanewashing” Lemay describes is evident here as well, with attempts to frame Poilievre’s conspiracy theories as legitimate political critiques rather than dangerous misinformation. This normalization of conspiracy theories is not limited to fringe elements; it has begun to influence mainstream political debates and policies, as evidenced by the increasing resonance of far-right rhetoric and misinformation in Canadian politics.

News: Trump, GOP fuel conspiracy theories: Eating pets, a rigged debate and QAnon

The impact of this trend extends beyond mere political discourse. It undermines the integrity of democratic processes and erodes public trust in institutions. When politicians and media outlets fail to challenge baseless claims and instead seek to rationalize them, they contribute to a cycle of misinformation that has real-world consequences. This is particularly dangerous in a digital age where misinformation spreads rapidly and can incite violence, as seen in the increased threats and hate crimes resulting from Trump’s rhetoric.

August 7, 2020

The critical question facing both American and Canadian society is how to address this crisis of misinformation and conspiracy theories. It is not enough to simply label these issues; there must be a concerted effort to counteract them. This involves not only holding politicians accountable for spreading falsehoods but also demanding that media outlets adhere to rigorous standards of truth and evidence. As Lemay suggests, we must move beyond awkwardly ignoring harmful rhetoric and actively engage in setting ethical standards for political behaviour and media reporting.

In practical terms, this means investing in fact-checking initiatives, promoting media literacy among the public, and creating platforms where informed and truthful discourse can thrive. It also involves holding politicians and media accountable for their roles in perpetuating misinformation. The goal is not to stifle dissent or alternative viewpoints but to ensure that political discourse is grounded in fact and evidence, rather than driven by fear and falsehoods.

As we navigate this challenging landscape, it is crucial for both citizens and institutions to remain vigilant and proactive. The rise of conspiracy theories and misinformation is not a distant threat but a present danger that demands immediate and sustained action. By addressing these issues head-on and fostering a culture of truth and accountability, we can work towards a political environment that values facts over fiction and unity over division. (AI)

Tuesday November 7, 2023

November 7, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday November 7, 2023

Opinion: Beware the Deceptive Nature of Anonymous Social Media Commentators

June 26, 2019

In today’s digital age, where information is readily available at our fingertips, it has become increasingly important to exercise caution and critical thinking when consuming content on social media platforms. While these platforms have undoubtedly revolutionized the way we connect and share information, they have also become breeding grounds for misinformation and deception. Anonymous commentators posing as experts can easily manipulate narratives, leading unsuspecting individuals down a dangerous path of false beliefs and harmful ideologies.

The rise of misinformation and disinformation on social media is a pressing concern that we must address. Misinformation, defined as the act of giving wrong information or the wrong information itself, can distort facts and mislead individuals. It may start innocently, like a game of telephone, with once-true statements being scrambled and taken out of context. However, misinformation can quickly escalate into something more sinister. When coupled with disinformation, which is intentionally spread false information, it can radicalize individuals or trick them into believing harmful mistruths about various subjects, from medicine to politics.

Analysis: Content creators surge past legacy media as news hits a tipping point

October 15, 2020

The psychological phenomenon known as the “misinformation effect” further highlights the danger of misinformation. It refers to the retroactive alteration of a person’s memory by false information learned after the fact. This rewiring of memory can not only distort historical events but also implant entirely new memories. Even the most intelligent and educated individuals with great memories can fall victim to misinformation, particularly when it aligns with their existing biases.

Social media platforms have become a fertile ground for the spread of misinformation. The ability to share information quickly and to a wide audience makes it an ideal medium for manipulative individuals to disseminate false narratives. In recent years, platforms like Facebook and Twitter have faced scrutiny for their role in allowing misinformation to spread rapidly, particularly during events like elections and the COVID-19 pandemic. Echo chambers and confirmation bias further exacerbate the problem, as individuals are sorted into communities that reinforce their existing beliefs, distancing them further from the truth.

To combat the spread of misinformation, it is crucial to develop news literacy skills. News literacy refers to the ability to determine the credibility of news and other information and to recognize the standards of fact-based journalism. It involves critically evaluating the source, author, and reporting standards to determine the reliability of the information. Asking questions like “What do I know?”, “What do I need to know?”, “How do I know what I know?”, and “Is there any other way to look at that?” can help individuals navigate the complex web of information and identify potential misinformation.

Student unions marching for Palestine may focus on raising awareness about Palestinian suffering, but it's important to have respectful dialogue considering diverse perspectives and experiences in the Israel-Palestine conflict.

November 1, 2023

Homeland security experts have expressed concern about the impact of online misinformation on extremist ideologies in the United States. The war between Israel and Hamas has heightened tensions, leading to an increase in hateful rhetoric and the spread of extremist viewpoints online. Online communities that espouse extremist beliefs, often leaderless and decentralized, have contributed to the rise of violence and terrorism. Identifying lone actors who commit acts of violence misrepresents the broader online communities that fuel their extremist ideologies.

Analysis: How to fix the internet

November 12, 2022

The responsibility to combat misinformation lies not only with individuals but also with social media platforms. Big tech companies must take proactive measures to limit the spread of misinformation and disinformation. The European Commission’s request for information from social media giants like Meta (formerly Facebook), TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) regarding their handling of content related to the Israel-Hamas war is an important step towards holding these platforms accountable. Transparency, fact-checking, and robust moderation practices are essential to ensure the safety and accuracy of information shared on these platforms.

The proliferation of misinformation and disinformation on social media is a significant concern in today’s society. Anonymous commentators posing as experts can easily deceive and manipulate unsuspecting individuals. It is crucial for active social media members to exercise caution, think critically, and develop news literacy skills to navigate the complex landscape of information. By doing so, we can protect ourselves from falling prey to false narratives and contribute to a more informed and responsible online community. (AI)

From sketch to finish, see the current way Graeme completes an editorial cartoon using an iPencil, the Procreate app, and a couple of cheats on an iPad Pro. If you’re creative, give illustration a try:

Friday August 4, 2023

August 4, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday August 4, 2023

Canada’s News Ban Sparks Global Debate on Tech Giants and Journalism Protection

June 12, 2019

In February 2021, Australia witnessed a showdown between tech giants Facebook and Google and the Australian government over a proposed law that would have required these platforms to pay media companies for the news stories appearing on their sites. In response, Facebook decided to block news on its platform in Australia, sending shockwaves across the globe.

Fast forward to June 2023, and Canada faced a similar crossroads. Rather than negotiating a deal like Australia, Ottawa passed the Online News Act, mandating that tech giants like Meta (formerly known as Facebook) compensate news outlets for the content they share or repurpose. In a move of defiance, Meta announced the end of news availability on its platforms in Canada.

The question now is whether Canada missed an opportunity to avoid this situation and secure a better deal. Some industry leaders and academics seemed to believe that the Australian incident was merely a bluff and that Meta would back down. They underestimated the tech giant’s resolve and misread the situation.

News: Meta begins removing news access for Canadians on Facebook, Instagram

March 2, 2023

The crucial difference between Australia’s legislation and Canada’s Online News Act lies in the concept of “designation.” In Australia, the News Media Bargaining Code granted the government the power to designate digital platforms like Meta and Google, effectively forcing them to pay for news. However, the Australian government removed this aspect during negotiations, allowing Meta and Google to make separate deals with media companies on their own terms.

Consequently, Meta and Google struck deals with more than 30 Australian media companies, resulting in approximately $200 million in value to news organizations. In contrast, the Canadian law lacks this flexibility, making it challenging for the government to engage in such negotiations.

While many believe the issue revolves around money, it runs deeper. Tech giants like Meta fear being regulated and setting a precedent that might apply to other jurisdictions. They don’t want to be cornered into accepting Canadian legislation and subsequently face pressure to do the same elsewhere. The outcome of this struggle will have global implications, as other countries and regions observe how these tech giants respond to regulatory measures.

Commentary: “They need us. We don’t need them:” The fall of Twitter is making the trolls and grifters desperate

October 15, 2020

However, beyond the financial and regulatory aspects, there is an underlying concern for Canadian journalism. The absence of news on platforms like Meta leaves a void that online trolls may exploit. By depriving trolls of mainstream Canadian news to devour, regurgitate, and berate, a news ban could help protect the integrity of journalism and promote responsible online discourse.

Canada’s decision to pass the Online News Act without a flexible designation mechanism might have limited its ability to negotiate deals with tech giants, resulting in a news ban similar to Australia’s earlier experience. Beyond financial considerations, the battle between tech giants and governments raises broader questions about regulation and global implications. Moreover, safeguarding Canadian journalism from online trolls adds another dimension to this debate. As we navigate this complex landscape, it is essential to strike a balance between protecting journalism and ensuring fair and responsible regulation of tech giants in the digital age. (AI)

Friday March 10, 2023

March 10, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday March 10, 2023

Fake News Channel

June 16, 2010

Recently released documents as part of a $1.6 billion defamation lawsuit brought by Dominion Voting Systems against Fox News have revealed that many of the network’s top executives and on-air personalities privately disagreed with Donald Trump’s false claims about the 2020 election and even disliked him personally. The lawsuit, filed in March 2021, alleges that Fox News spread lies about the election in an effort to prevent viewers from switching to other networks, and is seen as a significant financial threat to the network. The case is scheduled to begin on 17 April and is expected to last five weeks.

June 12, 2019

According to the documents, while publicly casting doubt on the fairness of the election, many Fox News personalities privately doubted Trump’s claims. The owner of Fox News, Rupert Murdoch, was also critical of Trump, calling his insistence on claiming foul play “terrible stuff damaging everybody.” Even Fox News personalities who publicly supported Trump, such as Tucker Carlson, privately expressed disdain for him, and has received much mockery for doing so. The documents also revealed that the network’s concern with maintaining advertising revenue was a significant factor in its decisions.

Although Fox News has released its own evidence to counter some of Dominion’s claims, the revelations from the released documents have already affected the network’s reputation and highlighted the divide between what its top personalities say in public and what they believe privately. (AI)

Wednesday June 26, 2019

June 26, 2019 by Graeme MacKay

June 26, 2019

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday June 26, 2019

Get ready for disinformation in election season

Were you among the Ontarians who received a text this weekend asking if you agree the federal carbon tax needs to be scrapped?

September 17, 2015

If so, you’re in good company. We don’t know how many got the text, purporting to be from Sue with a group called Ontario Strong. Could be a few hundred, could be thousands.

If you responded, chances are you were used. Indications are this was an attempt to identify anti-carbon tax voters so they can be lobbied in the coming election.

What’s wrong with that? For one thing that declaration wasn’t made. There was no attributing information on the text other than Ontario Strong. The group is little known and no credible political or lobbying group wants to be identified as being involved. There is no contact information. No information as to what Ontario Strong is about.

Speculation is that it is tied somehow to conservative interests that want to see the Trudeau Liberals defeated. But the usual suspects deny involvement.

August 1, 2013

Welcome to the summer election campaign. It may not be official yet, but it’s real nonetheless. And there is every reason to believe fake news and trickery like this will become more and more common in the weeks and months leading up to the formal campaign.

There are rules regulating this sort of shady political advocacy. After June 30 anyone spending more than $500 is supposed to register with Elections Canada as a third party lobbyist, adhere to stated spending limits and disclose who they are, what they stand for and, eventually, where they get their money.

Well established lobby groups — Shaping Canada’s Future is one on the conservative side while Engage Canada is on the other side — will follow the rules. But many others, some little more than a zealot in his basement and others with more sophisticated infrastructure, probably won’t. And their messages will be out there. On social media. On quickly assembled websites. In texts and emails.

June 12, 2019

CBC journalists and researchers at the University of Toronto’s Citizen Lab recently reported on how a disinformation campaign, which is believed to have originated in Iran, tried to get Canadian media outlets to amplify fake news. It worked in at least one case.

Reuters reported a fake story which said that six Arab countries had asked FIFA to prevent Qatar from hosting the 2022 World Cup. Global News picked up the story and gave it new legs with a national audience. Global later corrected the story.

The Iranian scammers also tried to drum up attention for a fake story claiming the CIA had backed a failed coup in Turkey.

Canadians, including thousands of Twitter users, were among the targets of this disinformation. While the subjects involved may not be relevant to average citizens, they will become more so as the election campaigns ramps up.

Politically motivated misinformation and fake news are not some distant threat. Like climate change, they’re happening right here and now. Just as we’re seeing first hand what damage climate change can bring, we’re seeing fake news in action. Our only protection is education and awareness. (Hamilton Spectator)

UPDATE: Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay – Monday March 24, 2025

The 2025 Canadian election faces unprecedented foreign interference threats, notably from the US, leveraging social media to manipulate voter sentiment.

The Looming Threat of Foreign Interference in Canada’s 2025 Election

March 24, 2025

As Canada prepares for its 2025 federal election, an unsettling cloud of foreign interference casts a shadow over what should be a democratic process free from external manipulation. Historically, Canada has been vigilant about interference from the usual suspects such as China, Russia, and other state actors. However, the current landscape demands that we broaden our focus to include new, unexpected sources of potential disruption.

Recent discussions and reports have raised alarms about the possibility of interference from an unlikely but powerful source: our neighbours to the south. Under President Donald Trump, the United States has not shied away from using its influence to sway public opinion and political outcomes in other countries. Trump’s administration has made no secret of its ambitions to bring Canada closer, even as far as making it the so-called “51st state.”

News: The U.S. has covertly destabilized nations. With Canada, it’s being done in public

The manipulation does not stop at political rhetoric. With tech moguls like Elon Musk at the helm of platforms like X, and Meta’s pervasive reach, the means to disseminate misinformation and influence Canadian voters are unprecedented. These platforms have become tools for amplifying divisive messages and shaping political narratives in ways that could undermine the electoral process.

The potential for manipulation via social media is a significant concern. Platforms can target young and economically vulnerable Canadians, swaying them with promises of economic stability under American influence, a tactic that has been hinted at in recent intelligence reports. With Musk’s known political leanings and the Trump administration’s aggressive stance, the risk of a coordinated effort to destabilize Canada’s election is high.

This is not just speculation. Reader comments and public discussions reflect a growing awareness and anxiety about the influence of American politics on Canada’s democratic process. The fear is not unfounded, as seen in the fallout from Trump’s reverse endorsement tactics, which have already impacted Canadian political dynamics.

A cartoon from 2019, once a quaint depiction of the dangers of disinformation, seems almost naive compared to the sophisticated and potentially devastating interference we face today. The stakes are higher, the tactics more insidious, and the potential consequences more severe.

Opinion: Trump and Poilievre’s Fake Carney Endorsement Just Nuked Pierre’s Campaign

As we approach the election, it is imperative for Canadian voters to remain vigilant. Awareness and scepticism are our first lines of defence against foreign manipulation. We must demand transparency from our leaders and accountability from the platforms that shape our public discourse.

The integrity of our election and the future of our democracy depend on our ability to recognize and resist these foreign influences. Canada must stand firm, informed, and resilient against the tide of interference that threatens the core of our democratic values.

This editorial cartoon was originally published June 26, 2019