The Catalyst Book Talks series continues with its second conversation, featuring Sumona Banerji, Founder and CEO of MindShield, to explore MindShield’s report “Defending Our Minds Against Manipulation: The Alberta Referendum Through a Cognitive Security Lens”.
With Alberta’s referendum approaching on October 19, the discussion examines the growing importance of cognitive security and our ability to think critically, form independent opinions, and make informed decisions. Joined by Charles Finlay, Sumona explores how fear, algorithms, and influence campaigns can manipulate public opinion and deepen social divisions, even among people with shared concerns and aspirations.
The conversation also considers how Canadians can recognize and resist manipulation, safeguard their independent judgment, and strengthen their resilience against information threats.