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Jan. 31, 2022, 8:26 p.m.

How society should deal with misinformation on Spotify

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Summary

The popular audio streaming service Spotify has come under fire for hosting the podcaster Joe Rogan, who’s spread COVID misinformation to millions. After two high-profile musicians took their music off Spotify in protest, the platform has announced reforms. William Brangham reports.

Five Facts

  • Who has come under fire for spreading misinformation on his podcast?
  • What is Spotify, and what sort of deal has it made with Joe Rogan?
  • Why have some musicians pulled their music from Spotify in response to Rogan's show?
  • How have Rogan and Spotify responded to criticism?
  • What is the problem with spreading disinformation, even when being open to a number of different viewpoints, according to guest Sam Woolley?

Focus Questions

Do you think the claim in this piece that there's money to be made in spreading false claims is accurate? Or do you think protecting the discussion of a wide range of opinions and views, even if they are not accurate, is more important? What is the best way to address the dilemma, in your opinion? Media literacy: What is the expertise of the person interviewed in this piece? Do you think his background gives him the authority to discuss the matter?

For More

For more on Spotify's response, see this story.
FILE PHOTO: Spotify CEO Daniel Ek speaks during a media event in New York
FILE PHOTO: Spotify CEO Daniel Ek speaks during a media event in New York, U.S., May 20, 2015. REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton/File Photo/File Photo
FILE PHOTO: Spotify CEO Daniel Ek speaks during a media event in New York, U.S., May 20, 2015. REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton/File Photo/File Photo

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