I tell this story not to brag (OK, maybe a little) but to illustrate the value of rational people raising their voices in the face of false narratives.
When a group of scientists, engineers, and I launched BIG Media in 2021, I figured that our facts/logic-focused news coverage would surprise many and draw criticism.
I vowed to myself (and posted the promise on social media, which is the modern version of swearing on a stack of Bibles) that regardless of the volume or severity of verbal attacks, I would stick to the high road. I would not respond to vitriol with vitriol.
I was correct about the criticism. Many were unprepared for simple truths about such things as COVID-19, climate change, the environment, and geopolitical conflict.
As we began publishing articles that flew in the face of prevailing narratives, I was called every name in the book and then some. And each time, I responded with logic, respect (although one could argue that my sheepish shenanigans were far from respectful), and usually with links to relevant, fact-focused analysis.
Another 2021 pledge I made was to challenge those who spread misinformation and hatred. I have consistently done so by wandering into echo chambers, challenging irresponsible posts, then getting pummelled by the poster’s protective pals.
Now, I have skin that rivals that of an alligator, but what truly keeps my self-esteem intact are the results of my adherence to the high road.
With those who do not block me after my challenges, I see a noticeable change in their online behaviour. They may feel anger toward me when I shake up their thread with a burst of verifiable facts, but they are much less likely to publicly post misinformation or discriminatory messages after being exposed to facts and logic on whatever the topic.
When someone publishes a post exaggerating the threat of sea-level rise, for example, they are unlikely to do so again after reading this article by doctor of geology and educator Brad Hayes or my humour column that carries a serious message regarding the absurdity of some commentary from top officials.
When someone suggests that the world will soon run out of hydrocarbon energy resources (aka fossil fuels), their opinion changes abruptly upon seeing this piece by Dr. Joseph Fournier.
When someone claims that the lockdown-and-vaccinate approach to the COVID pandemic was sensible and successful, their tune tends to change after seeing exceptional analysis of the relative lethality of COVID-19, excess deaths, and causes of death by entrepreneurial data scientist Laurie Weston, of COVID vaccination side effects by geoscientist and novelist Lee Hunt, and of mRNA vaccine side effects among children by epidemiologist/statistician Dr. David Vickers.
When challenging irresponsible posts, I routinely respond to insults with comments along the lines of, “I understand that this is a sensitive topic, but my intent is to reduce division by focusing on verifiable facts and fundamental principles … and if you can find any inaccuracy in the linked article, I am all ears.” A polite exchange generally follows. Some former haters are now friendly supporters – or, at least, respectful followers – of my mission.
I invite everyone in my network to raise their voices against prevailing false narratives and irresponsible social media posts – and to do so respectfully and with links to evidence supported by data and verifiable facts such as that found on this platform.
We are making a difference at BIG-Media.ca. With your help, we can make a BIG difference.
(Rob Driscoll, BIG Media Ltd., 2025)