How right-wing extremism has led to the fall of critical thinking and rise of reactionary politics—and what we can do about it to save our democracy
Known for providing incisive progressive political analysis without being dogmatic, popular radio and podcast host David Pakman delves into the vicious cycle of reactionary political ideology.
It’s no secret how the right-wing has benefited and capitalized off disinformation and polarization of US politics. Critical thinking and media literacy are on a rapid decline, and our republic is unable to agree upon a shared set of facts.
Deeply researched and accessibly written, readers will learn:
- The underlying issues with political discourse in America today.
- How these issues have led to the intellectual race to the bottom.
- Practical ways to improve discourse through improving critical thinking, media literacy, and public education.
- Examples from real-world debates and discussions to better understand the impact of these issues on our democracy and why leftism is the best path forward.
The Echo Machine is not just a critique nor an instruction manual, but an invitation to think, question, and understand. Pakman equips readers with the knowledge to be inspired to break out of our toxic political echo chamber and ultimately save our democracy.
“David Pakman is a pioneer in digital media who has reshaped the way political news is presented. His book The Echo Machine is a masterpiece that exposes the rot in corporate media and offers a clear path forward to restore integrity and rebuild the Fourth Estate.”
—Ben Meiselas, cofounder MeidasTouch Network
“David Pakman has been an inspiration of mine for a long time, and this book is a testament to why. David uses his sharp wit in The Echo Machine to confront and dismantle the right-wing tactics that have polarized our country and left so many disillusioned and doubtful about the prospect of progress. For anyone who wants to stand up to disinformation and deepen their understanding of politics without getting lost in jargon, this book is essential reading.”
—Brian Tyler Cohen, YouTuber and author of Shameless
“Understanding how our political system has become broken in favor of reactionary ignorance is vital for saving our democracy. David Pakman accessibly explains how we got here and offers potential solutions for confronting the ongoing abandonment of critical thinking. In a time when political engagement is more crucial than ever, this is a must-read for every American looking to navigate the future of politics with clarity, purpose, and a commitment to preserving our democracy.”
—Barbara McQuade, author of Attack from Within: How Disinformation Is Sabotaging America