What is Fake News?
False Information v Fake News
Experts now recommend avoiding the term ‘fake news’, or at least limit its use, as the term ‘fake news’ is closely associated with politics, and this association can unhelpfully narrow the focus of the issue. The term ‘false information’ is preferable as it can refer to a diverse range of misinformation and disinformation covering topics such as health, environmental and economics across all platforms and genres, while ‘fake news’ is more narrowly understood as political news stories.
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What is False Information?
Lots of things you read online especially in your social media feeds may appear to be true, often is not. False information is news, stories or hoaxes created to deliberately misinform or deceive readers. Usually, these stories are created to either influence people’s views, push a political agenda or cause confusion and can often be a profitable business for online publishers. False information can deceive people by looking like trusted websites or using similar names and web addresses to reputable news organisations.
Origins of Fake News
Fake news has always been around since our species learned advanced communication. It started wars, sparked eras, and built prejudice. Fake news helped Nazis advance their anti-semitic actions, sparked war between the Spaniards and Americans, and many more.
Fake news itself doesn't have an origin, rather, people spread false information to either change people's choices, like the smear campaigns between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump, or to promote bogus products, such as when radium water was sold as a cure-for-all.
Importance of Recognizing Fake News
Nowadays, thanks to technical advancements and the widespread use of 4G networks, consumers can readily access countless news sites. But have we thought about the potential that a news item could have entirely different versions? This, in my opinion, has a lot to do with the fake news that has caused social turmoil throughout the world.
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Media literacy is crucial in a time where information can be transmitted and received swiftly. However, for the benefit of a peaceful society, media organizations have a responsibility to combat fake news and concentrate on the "actual news."
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We shouldn't take everything people say at face value. What they say doesn't really matter as long as we use critical thinking and act responsibly. We can then direct our own course accordingly.
About the Author
I'm Kevin Paolo V. Cuadra, a member of Tatak Kompanista. I am from 11 STEM Diamond, a Senior High student at Bataan National High School. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me with the information below: