Ep 23. CBSN Originals presents "Reverb" | QANON

CBSN Originals presents "Reverb" | QANON is the 23rd episode of season 5 of the news program. In this episode, the journalists dive into the controversial conspiracy theory group, QAnon, that has been making headlines across the globe. QAnon is an online community that has gained millions of followers by promoting various conspiracy theories, including the idea that there is a cabal of global elites who are running a child sex trafficking ring.

Through interviews with QAnon supporters, former QAnon members, and experts on conspiracy theories, the show explores the origins of the movement, its rapid growth, and the impact it has had on American politics. The episode takes a closer look at the way QAnon supporters have interpreted events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 presidential election, and how dangerous these conspiracy theories can be when they turn into actions, like the Capitol riots.

The impact of social media, especially YouTube and Facebook, on the spread of QAnon's conspiracy theories is also highlighted in this episode. The show talks to a YouTube creator who created content related to QAnon before they had even heard of the group, and how social media algorithms pushed their content to millions of viewers. Furthermore, the program demonstrates how Facebook allowed QAnon groups to flourish for years with minimal oversight.

The episode concludes with a discussion around the significant threat that QAnon poses to American democracy because of the movement's extremist ideology and baseless claims. The journalists argue that the QAnon movement's penetration into mainstream discussions and political discourse supply an opportunity for politicians and activists to address the issues that have driven the growth of this movement.

Overall, the CBSN Originals season 5 episode 23, "Reverb" | QANON, offers a detailed and insightful examination of the QAnon phenomenon. The show explains how QAnon has evolved from an obscure conspiracy theory into a global movement with millions of devotees. It also highlights the significant dangers that QAnon poses to American democracy through the spread of dangerous falsehoods. The program offers a comprehensive and rigorous look into a complex phenomenon that otherwise may seem outlandish and surreal.