Google search algorithms often pull up misleading descriptors for controversial people, and results can differ across languages. Understanding how these algorithms function can address misinformation.
Media-savvy, far right-wing activists in the U.S., Hungary and Poland spread white nationalist politics using paranoid Soros conspiracy theories. This new global extremism is coming to Canada.
It’s all well and good for Facebook to shut down people like Faith Goldy, but it’s critical we recognize that the far right’s culture war is diffusing more broadly within Canadian politics.
Maxime Bernier’s new political party may be able to swipe some votes from the Conservatives. But it’s going nowhere if he allows it to remain a conduit for xenophobia, nativism and white supremacy.
Faith Goldy’s third-place finish in the Toronto mayoralty race should not be dismissed. We must be watchful of the potential lessons that other far-right politicians may draw from her campaign.
Free speech may protect offensive speech, but we degrade this central right when we see it as simply the right to offend, regardless of the impact on others.