Professor Timothy Caulfield argues that most viral online debates aren't built to uncover truth at all, they're built to produce a winner, a loser, and maximum shares. This one is for anyone who has watched a debate clip online and sensed something was off about the exchange without being able to name why.

Timothy Caulfield names the specific techniques behind that feeling, from the information overload of the Gish gallop to the bait-and-switch of the Motte and Bailey fallacy, and explains how state actors use these same tools to manufacture distrust in institutions. The conversation wraps with a simple framework for recognising when a debate is designed to inform versus designed to polarize.

Topics: Timothy Caulfield, Gish gallop, misinformation tactics, polarization, debate manipulation

GUEST: Timothy Caulfield | @caulfieldtim

Professor Timothy Caulfield argues that most viral online debates aren't built to uncover truth at all, they're built to produce a winner, a loser, and maximum shares. This one is for anyone who has watched a debate clip online and sensed something was off about the exchange without being able to name why.
Timothy Caulfield names the specific techniques behind that feeling, from the information overload of the Gish gallop to the bait-and-switch of the Motte and Bailey fallacy, and explains how state actors use these same tools to manufacture distrust in institutions. The conversation wraps with a simple framework for recognising when a debate is designed to inform versus designed to polarize.
Topics: Timothy Caulfield, Gish gallop, misinformation tactics, polarization, debate manipulation
GUEST: Timothy Caulfield | @caulfieldtim

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.