The Truth About Information Warfare & Plant-Based Living: Michael Dorfman on UnMasking Humanity
In this eye-opening episode of UnMasking Humanity: 21 Questions with Joshua T Berglan , we dive deep into the world of information warfare and plant-based living with special guest Michael Dorfman. At 82 years young, Dorfman brings a wealth of experience and insight into the manipulation of information and the power of a whole food plant-based lifestyle.
Who is Michael Dorfman?
Born in Brooklyn, New York in 1942, Michael Dorfman has been a resident of Mexico for over 45 years. His journey into plant-based nutrition began in 1976 when he became a vegetarian due to his growing interest in Eastern philosophy. In 2008, he transitioned to a Whole Food Plant-Based diet for health reasons, a decision that profoundly impacted his life and shaped his mission to help others achieve optimal health.
Dorfman’s expertise in plant-based nutrition is backed by his certification from the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies through Cornell University. He is the author of two influential books: The Thriving Vegan (2019) and Information Wars - The Battle for Truth and Freedom (2024).
Key Insights from the Interview
The Power of Plant-Based Living
Dorfman’s personal experience with a whole food plant-based diet has been transformative. At 82, he maintains an active lifestyle, playing pickleball four times a week and hitting the gym three times weekly. He attributes his vitality and mental clarity to his dietary choices.
The Protein Myth
"I get my protein where the gorilla gets his protein, where the elephant gets its protein, where the wild boar gets his protein..."
One of the most persistent questions Dorfman encounters is about protein sources in a plant-based diet. His humorous and enlightening response illustrates that some of the largest and strongest animals on Earth thrive on plant-based diets.
The Microbiome Revolution
Dorfman highlights the importance of fiber in our diet, explaining that the latest research on the microbiome—with over 5,000 studies conducted annually—shows that our gut bacteria thrive on fiber, something only found in plant foods. This emerging field is reshaping our understanding of nutrition and health.
Information Warfare and Media Manipulation
Drawing from his latest book, Dorfman discusses the concept of information warfare, defining it as a tug-of-war between different information sources in the media, with ordinary citizens caught in the middle. He identifies tactics used in this warfare, including:
- Cherry-picking information
- Repeating lies until they’re perceived as truth
- Intimidating or censoring those with alternative viewpoints
The Pandemic as a Turning Point
For Dorfman, the COVID-19 pandemic was a watershed moment in recognizing the extent of misinformation. He observed a lack of emphasis on improving overall health during lockdowns and became alarmed at the censorship of legitimate questions about vaccine safety.
The Importance of Critical Thinking
Throughout the interview, Dorfman emphasizes the need for individuals to question narratives, seek diverse sources of information, and maintain an open mind. He encourages readers to start doubting and investigating when something doesn’t make sense.
The Global Shift: Unipolar vs. Multipolar World
Dorfman shares his perspective on the current global political landscape, describing it as a battle between a unipolar world (dominated by the United States) and a multipolar world (represented by BRICS countries and others seeking more equitable international relations).
Practical Advice for Readers
- Question Everything: Don’t accept information at face value, especially when it comes to health and global issues.
- Diversify Your Information Sources: Seek out multiple perspectives and be wary of "clickbait" content.
- Stay Connected to Yourself: Dorfman practices daily meditation to maintain objectivity and inner peace while investigating challenging topics.
- Take Action: Whether through voting, peaceful protests, or engaging in discussions with friends, find ways to actively shape the world around you.
- Prioritize Your Health: Consider exploring a whole food plant-based diet and focus on increasing fiber intake for optimal gut health.
Conclusion
Michael Dorfman’s journey from a curious vegetarian to an investigative author tackling some of the most pressing issues of our time is both inspiring and enlightening. His message of questioning narratives, seeking truth, and prioritizing health resonates deeply in our current era of information overload and global uncertainty.
As we navigate the complex landscape of modern media and health information, Dorfman’s insights serve as a valuable guide. By combining critical thinking with a commitment to personal and planetary health, we can work toward a more informed, healthier, and potentially more peaceful world.
To learn more about Michael Dorfman and his work, visit his website at www.michaeljdorfman.com or follow him on Substack, Medium, and Facebook. His books, The Thriving Vegan and Information Wars - The Battle for Truth and Freedom , are available on Amazon.
Share your thoughts on this interview in the comments below. How has it changed your perspective on information consumption and health choices?
