This accessible short text, illustrated with full-color stock photos, tackles reasons for the toxic atmosphere that exists in the U.S. Allen explains that the internet has accelerated the spread of conspiracy theories long understood as dangerous, through unfiltered social media platforms that spread disinformation and untruths. AI-generated content, such as deepfakes, adds to the problem. Students must be able to consider information sources, analyze them, and evaluate their use. This book provides information about several controversial issues that have divided the public along party lines, primarily the facts and fictions swirling around recent presidential elections and health care issues such as the efficacy of vaccines to combat Covid-19 and their connection (or lack thereof) with autism. The author describes each side’s views, and quotations from journalists and a variety of experts (which are sometimes highlighted in colored text boxes) allow readers to trace how technology has amplified or exposed falsehoods that influence legislation, stoke violence, and cause harm to individuals. Allen’s source notes show that he largely drew upon secondary sources published in 2024 and 2025, making this an up-to-date resource on a fast-changing topic.
