Information Manipulation in Digital Spaces: Doing Public Interest Research Amidst Political Pressure

Renée DiResta studies adversarial abuse online—ways that people attempt to manipulate, harass, or target others within the constantly evolving landscape of digital platforms. She will discuss her empirical research on the ways propagandists deliberately undermine belief in the legitimacy of institutions that make society work, and share how she translates her work into policy suggestions to mitigate online information manipulation. Drawing on her personal experience coming under fire for her public interest research, she will share advice on how to do scientific research in a highly politicized environment. Early arrival attendees will receive a copy of DiResta’s latest book, Invisible Rulers: The People Who Turn Lies into Reality, while supplies last. Reception to follow in Rackham Assembly Hall.