Snackz logo
How to Stand Up to a Dictator

Maria Ressa

294 Pages
2022

How to Stand Up to a Dictator

Random House

Below is just an AI summary! If you really want to learn something:

โšก Free 3min Summary

How to Stand Up to a Dictator - Summary

In 'How to Stand Up to a Dictator', Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Ressa examines the fight for democracy in the digital age through her experiences battling disinformation in the Philippines under the Duterte regime. She reveals how technology is being weaponized to silence dissent and manipulate public opinion globally, while offering insights on defending truth and democratic values.

Key Ideas

1

The Death of Democracy by a Thousand Cuts

Democracy is gradually eroded through sophisticated disinformation campaigns that exploit social media algorithms to spread lies, stoke fear and hatred, and sow distrust in traditional media and institutions.

2

The Role of Technology and Social Media

Social media platforms' algorithms, designed for engagement and profit, have become vehicles for spreading disinformation. These companies have failed in their moral responsibility to combat lies and hate speech, leading to severe consequences for democracies.

3

The Power of Truth and the Importance of Courage

Truth remains a powerful weapon against tyranny, and individual courage can make a difference. People must become discerning information consumers, speak out against injustice, and hold power accountable.

FAQ's

This book is for anyone concerned about the future of democracy, freedom of the press, and the impact of technology on society. It's for those who want to understand how disinformation is being used to manipulate us and what we can do to fight back.

While Ressa's experience in the Philippines is central to the book, the themes she explores have global relevance. She draws connections to disinformation campaigns in the US, Europe, and beyond, making it clear that this is a universal issue.

Ressa explains complex concepts in a clear and accessible way, making it engaging for a wide audience. While she delves into the technical aspects of disinformation, she primarily focuses on the human impact and the larger societal implications.

Enjoyed the sneak peak? Get the full summary!

Let's find the best book for you!

Get book summaries directly into your inbox!

Join more than 10,000 readers in our newsletter

Snackz book
Snackz logo

The right book at the right time will change your life.

Get the books directly into your inbox!

โœ… New Release

โœ… Book Recommendation

โœ… Book Summaries

Copyright 2023-2025. All rights reserved.