Key Falsehoods or Claims: The article discusses the proliferation of conspiracy theories about the shooting at a Florida high school in 2018, which have been promoted by former President Donald Trump and his allies. These theories falsely claim that the shooting was a “false flag” operation staged by the government or that the victims were “crisis actors.”

Source Bias: The article is from FRANCE 24 English, which is a neutral outlet known for its international news coverage and analysis.

Analysis of Impact: The spread of these falsehoods has contributed to a climate of distrust and division, especially among those who support Donald Trump. Polling data has shown that a significant portion of his supporters believe in these conspiracy theories, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. This erodes public trust in institutions and fuels suspicion and hostility, posing a threat to our democracy.

Hypothetical Scenarios: If these conspiracy theories continue to gain traction, it could further polarize the public and make it increasingly difficult to find common ground on important issues. It could also lead to increased political violence and undermine the legitimacy of our democratic processes.

Further Reading: For further reading on media influence and misinformation studies, reputable sources include academic journals such as the Journal of Communication, the Harvard Kennedy School’s Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics, and Public Policy, and the Poynter Institute for Media Studies. These sources provide scholarly research and analysis on the impact of media on public opinion and the spread of misinformation.

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