Don’t Take the Bait! The Propaganda of Influencers and Outrage Media with Renee HobbsAn adult education program
As intentional falsehoods and hate have become a rhetorical strategy with profound consequences for democracy, media consumers need habits of mind and practical strategies that protect them from the new propaganda of influencers and outrage media. In this presentation, we will explore how propaganda takes many forms and achieves its goals by activating strong emotions, simplifying complex issues, appealing to our deepest hopes and fears, and attacking opponents to undermine trust. Using current examples, we will examine clickbait, scams, personalization, algorithms, and AI, and will practice media moves that help us respond as proactive citizens.
Sponsored by Learning is Forever, Rochester Community and Technical College (MN)
DATE: Wednesday, September 9, 2026
TIME: 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
FEE: $15/$25
LOCATION: Room Zoom