Key Falsehoods or Claims:
The article discusses how Donald Trump’s campaign was fueled by conspiracy theories and false claims, such as the “birther” movement which falsely claimed that President Obama was not born in the United States, and the falsehood that millions of illegal votes were cast in the 2016 election.

Source and Bias:
The Big Issue is a UK-based publication known for its social and political commentary. While it does have a left-leaning perspective, it aims to provide balanced and well-researched coverage.

Analysis of Impact on Public Opinion and Democracy:
The article highlights how these falsehoods have shaped public opinion, citing polling data that shows a significant portion of the population believed in these conspiracy theories. It also discusses how these lies have contributed to a broader distrust in the media and democratic institutions.

Threat to Democracy:
The spread of lies and conspiracy theories poses a significant threat to democracy by undermining the public’s trust in the electoral process and fostering division within society. It also creates a fertile ground for disinformation and manipulation.

Hypothetical Reactions and Outcomes:
The article does not provide specific hypothetical scenarios, but it does discuss how these falsehoods gained traction and affected voter behavior, leading to a more polarized and distrustful electorate.

Further Reading:
For further reading, reputable sources on media influence and misinformation studies include academic journals like the Journal of Communication and the International Journal of Public Opinion Research, as well as books by experts in the field such as “The Misinformation Age: How False Beliefs Spread” by Cailin O’Connor and James Owen Weatherall.

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