Publication: This Episode, Misinformation: The Growing Influence of Podcasts and How to Regulate Them
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Charlie Roth FINAL THESIS.pdf (5.86 MB)
Date
2025-04-11
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Abstract
This thesis examines the influence of podcasts, particularly on the 2024 U.S. presidential election and the spread of misinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic. An analysis of guests in popular political podcasts shows a weak, but existing, overlap in guests that is stronger in the conservative podcast network. Given how influential podcasts have proven to be, a policy proposal is set forth: threatening Section 230 protections to encourage podcast platforms to place labels on all content discussing public health emergencies. First Amendment concerns and implications are discussed.