Description

 The Trouble with Reality

A Rumination on Moral Panic in Our Time

Co-host of WNYC’s on the Media

In each episode of the popular radio show On the Media, the renowned journalist Brooke Gladstone delves into the world of media and its impact on our perception of reality. With her keen insights and ability to draw unexpected connections, Gladstone sheds light on what she refers to as the “trouble with reality,” a phenomenon that many of us can relate to.

Gladstone challenges our preconceived notions of reality, revealing that it is not as solid as we once believed. She highlights the existence of bubbles and the subjective nature of individuals, which often leads to the reinforcement of stereotypes. This vulnerability of reality becomes even more apparent when examining the tactics employed by Donald J. Trump and his team. As Gladstone astutely points out, for them, lying is not a flaw but a deliberate strategy. By brazenly distorting the truth, they manipulate reality and assert their power. Drawing on the works of influential thinkers such as Hannah Arendt, Walter Lippmann, Philip K. Dick, and Jonathan Swift, Gladstone dissects this authoritarian playbook and exposes how the Trump team has mastered it. She specifically analyzes the five types of tweets that Trump frequently employs to blur the lines between fact and fiction.

Despite the disheartening state of affairs, Gladstone offers a glimmer of hope. She emphasizes that there are actionable steps we can take to combat this moral panic. Additionally, history has shown us that a reckoning is inevitable. We can rely on the course of history to bring about a moment of truth and accountability. In her concise and impactful book, The Trouble with Reality, Gladstone not only explains why many of us failed to anticipate these challenges but also guides how we can regain our faith in reality and preserve our sanity in the face of such manipulation.

“… a battle plan for individuals anxiously ‘watching the edifice of reality collapse.’”  —The New Yorker

“Brooke Gladstone has whipped up a short stiff drink of truth. You’ll be better for taking it.” —George Packer, author of The Unwinding

“A spirited rampage through the hall of mirrors that is the new post-truth era.  I read this in one sitting, and at the end, for a fleeting moment, felt like I had a new hammer in my hand.”—Jad Abumrad, co-host of Radio Lab

Brooke Gladstone:

Brooke Gladstone, a highly accomplished American journalist and media analyst, has made a significant impact in the field of journalism. With her extensive experience and expertise, she has become a prominent figure in the industry. Currently, she serves as the cohost of NPR’s On the Media, where she brings insightful discussions and analysis to the listeners. Before this role, she held senior editor positions at Weekend Edition and All Things Considered, showcasing her versatility and adaptability in different journalistic formats.

Residing in the vibrant city of Brooklyn, New York, Brooke Gladstone is not only a respected professional but also an integral part of the local community. Her presence in the media landscape has helped shed light on important issues and fostered meaningful conversations. As a journalist, she has dedicated her career to uncovering the truth and providing a platform for diverse voices to be heard. Her commitment to journalistic integrity and her ability to navigate complex topics have earned her the admiration and respect of her peers and audiences alike.

Beyond her professional achievements, Brooke Gladstone’s personal life reflects her passion for storytelling and her love for the arts. Living in Brooklyn, a hub of creativity and cultural diversity, she is surrounded by inspiration and endless opportunities for exploration. This vibrant environment surely contributes to her ability to connect with people from all walks of life and bring their stories to the forefront. As a journalist and media analyst, Brooke Gladstone continues to make a lasting impact on the industry, shaping the way we consume and understand news in the digital age.