In a world where information spreads faster than a virus, separating fact from fiction has become an overwhelming task. Disinformation doesn’t just distort reality — it actively undermines trust, fuels conflict, and threatens democracy itself.

Join us for an eye-opening talk with Prof. Dr. Thorsten Quandt from the University of Münster, one of Germany’s leading experts on digital disinformation. During his stay in Vancouver, he will share the latest insights into how false narratives take hold and why they are so difficult to counter.

Prof. Quandt’s focus is on TikTok and some lesser-known corners of the digital world: fringe groups that blend spirituality, conspiracy theories, and pseudo-religious beliefs into bizarre narratives. At first glance, these communities might seem like niche curiosities, but they can wield significant influence — sometimes even manipulated by foreign actors aiming to destabilize public discourse.

Prof. Quandt’s research moves beyond traditional communication studies, exploring unconventional spaces where entertainment and conspiracy converge — from mystical health movements to digital cults. Using advanced AI, his team analyzes millions of posts to uncover hidden patterns and strategic manipulation.

Through vivid real-world examples and engaging visualizations, this talk will explore how disinformation networks operate, why they thrive, and what we can learn to better protect our societies from their influence.

This is not just an academic discussion — it’s an urgent exploration of how digital chaos can disrupt our world. Don’t miss it!

Participation is free. We can't wait to see you there and look forward to a lively debate with you all!

Date: Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM
Venue: UBC | Liu Institute for Global Issues | 6476 NW Marine Drive | Vancouver | xʷθəθiqətəm - Place of Many Trees (formerly Liu Multipurpose Room) | Room 130