Dean Pagano's Key Ideas from If Only We Knew
by Peter S. Baron

‘Understanding the Ignorance Paradox’

In an age of abundant information, ignorance proliferates. This paradox is exacerbated by misinformation and the weaponization of rhetoric.

What societal changes are needed to embrace truth over manipulated ignorance?

‘Media Consolidation and Ignorance Creation’

Six corporations control 90% of U.S. media, influencing public opinion to preserve elite interests.

How can individuals critically engage with media to resist manipulation and misinformation?

‘The Cost of Climate Ignorance’

The fossil fuel industry has turned climate science into a partisan issue, delaying reform.

Can reversing this ignorance help us implement the urgent solutions the planet desperately needs?

‘Wealth Inequality and Ignorance’

The elite class manipulates economic policies to amplify their wealth at the expense of others.

How can we restructure the economy to prioritize equity over elite profit?

‘Weaponized Ignorance in Racial Systems’

From the War on Drugs to mass incarceration, racial inequality is perpetuated through intentional misinformation.

How can dismantling these false narratives lead to justice and equality?

‘The Silence of Research’

Legislation like the Dickey Amendment has suppressed research on gun violence, keeping the public ignorant.

How can reversing ignorance on this issue lead to meaningful gun control policies?

‘The Public Health Ignorance Epidemic’

Obesity, mental health, and other crises are exacerbated by a lack of accessible, truthful information.

What role can education and transparent policy play in addressing these risks?

‘The Antidote to Ignorance’

To combat the risks of ignorance, society must adopt a “culture for others” that values collective well-being over individualism.

How can this cultural shift be initiated and sustained?