I've read comments like this on hacker news more and more recently. What narrative is behind it, and what is the evidence for this narrative?
Is it "Enemies of the USA are deploying social media based psyops that destabilize the country by astroturfing propaganda?"
That's an interesting idea, probably true, but also sounds like a conspiracy theory. Even if it is true, how would we know to what extent it affects public opinion?
Russia has systematically used social media to spread propaganda and disinformation within the United States, targeting the general public and specific groups to influence political attitudes, exacerbate divisions, and interfere in electoral processes. These efforts have been well-documented by academic research, U.S. intelligence assessments, and criminal indictments.
Is it "Enemies of the USA are deploying social media based psyops that destabilize the country by astroturfing propaganda?"
That's an interesting idea, probably true, but also sounds like a conspiracy theory. Even if it is true, how would we know to what extent it affects public opinion?
Or maybe you're referring to something else.