Actor and comedian Sacha Baron Cohen has described Facebook as 'the greatest propaganda machine in history' and said the company would have allowed Adolf Hitler to run propaganda on its platform. In a speech at the Anti-Defamation League, Baron Cohen criticised social media companies for enabling hate speech and misinformation.
Speaking as himself rather than in character, Baron Cohen said the algorithms used by platforms like Facebook and YouTube amplify content that triggers outrage and fear. He argued that this has helped spread conspiracy theories and hate, including antisemitic lies.
Baron Cohen referenced his own satirical work, including Borat and Bruno, as examples of how comedy can expose prejudice. He noted that during a Borat scene, a bar in Arizona sang 'Throw the Jew down the well', revealing indifference to antisemitism.
The comedian also highlighted the rise of hate crimes and attacks on minorities, linking these trends to the power of internet companies. He warned that democracy is in retreat and autocracy on the march, as shared truths are replaced by shared lies.
