In this episode of Fascinating!, Rik from Planet Vulcan takes a critical look at a recent discussion between Sam Harris and legal scholar Cass Sunstein on the role of government in combating misinformation. With his signature dry wit, Rik explores the unsettling idea that government agencies should suppress “misinformation” on social media, pointing out the slippery slope of trusting those in authority to decide what’s true. Rik highlights the irony in how easily these intellectual giants dismiss concerns about government overreach, without acknowledging the historical examples where crises were used to expand political power.
Rik delves into the complexities of distinguishing misinformation from truth and the dangers of placing that power in the hands of a few. As he contemplates Mark Twain’s timeless question—are these really smart people who are just putting us on, or do they really mean it?—Rik reminds us of the wisdom in skepticism and the value of free speech. Tune in to this thought-provoking episode that challenges the modern rush to control information.
