Welcome to SmidgeCast, the podcast channel of the SMIDGE Project. We explore the surge of extremist narratives in Europe and their impact on mainstream discussions. We will focus on middle-aged individuals who, not being digital natives, rely on traditional and online media, making them susceptible to extremism. In each engaging episode, we bring together experts, academics and stakeholders to explain the intricate web of issues impacting this group. Through insightful conversations and expe ...
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Conspiracy Theories: Networks, emotions and moral values
21:45
21:45
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In this episode of the Smidgecast, Christian Gulas, a Network Analyst from FAS Research in Vienna, explains his role in analyzing the spread and attractiveness of disinformation and conspiracy theories on social media platforms. We explore the social and semantic structures that make these theories so compelling, the role of emotions like fear and …
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AI in Education for Addressing Intersection with Disinformation, Misinformation and Fake News
21:44
21:44
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21:44
Researchers Maria Rita Bracchini and Fabrizio Boldrini from Fondazione Villa Montesca discuss the profound implications of AI on teaching and learning, exploring its potential benefits, risks and ethical considerations. They share insights on how AI is reshaping educational paradigms and how educators can navigate the challenges posed by disinforma…
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1
Extremism, Power, Vulnerability in Midlife
26:50
26:50
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26:50
In this episode of the Smidgecast, Sara Wilford from Montfort University discusses the vulnerability of middle-aged individuals to misinformation and the impact of the digital landscape on their information consumption. The theory of deep state is explored as an example of a conspiracy theory that resonates with middle-aged individuals and influenc…
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A First Overview on Extremism and Conspiracy Theories Online
23:30
23:30
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23:30
In this first episode of SmidgeCast, Prof. Giovanni Ziccardi provides a comprehensive overview of the SMIDGE project, and explains the pressing need to combat disinformation, conspiracy theories and online extremism in today’s complex landscape. If you found this episode informative, please share it to support our mission.…
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