Last night, a much-anticipated report from the US government on UFOs revealed that American intelligence officials have found no evidence that aerial phenomena witnessed by Navy pilots in recent years are alien spacecraft.
While there has been breathless coverage during the past month around a possible UFO report, Syracuse University assistant professor Jennifer Grygiel says this is simply the government using social media as a propaganda tool.
“UFO content is an editorial tool and growth strategy that will fuel government social media,” said Grygiel. “Try to get your alien news from the free press.”
Grygiel (they/them) is a researcher of social media, propaganda, and the oversight and abuse of platforms. You can see examples of their interviews here: http://jennifergrygiel.com/
“Publishers, of course, would love to get their hands on classified reports on aliens but they’re picking up engagement scraps when the government publishes it first,” said Grygiel.
“This is clearly a play for content and attention which allows the administration to set the agenda. The rise of disinformation under Trump is troubling but it’s concerning when the next administration picks up the same tools of oppression. Cannot fight government propaganda with more propaganda,” said Grygiel.
To request an interview with Grygiel, please contact Ellen James Mbuqe, director of media relations, at ejmbuqe@syr.edu or 412-496-0551. Alternatively, you can always reach out to Grygiel directly at jmgrygiel@syr.edu.
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