Automated epistemology: computational propaganda, algorithmic curation, and epistemic practice

Abstract

As our collective epistemic practice becomes increasingly automated, propagandists have begun to exploit vulnerabilities within the algorithmically driven curation mechanisms embedded in platforms that users are widely turning to as primary information sources. Noticeably, this phenomena plays out within our social media ecosystems as propagandists have begun to manipulate the algorithmic criteria for boosting specific pieces of content, particularly disinformation, sometimes using automated means in order to manipulate public conversation, manufacture consensus, and sow civic discord in order to serve a specific sociocultural or political goal, often at the expense, and exploitation of, traditionally marginalized groups. The aim of this presentation is to generate a broader awareness of computational propaganda, its techniques, and the utilization of critical pedagogical techniques in order to counteract and dilute the effectiveness these propagandists may have on the epistemic success or failure of students in the higher education context.