Social Media: Is Your Breaking News Broken?

Summary

In a discussion about the challenges of sourcing accurate news from social media, experts Renee DiResta and David Barstow emphasize the speed and sensationalism of online information. They highlight the distinction between misinformation and disinformation, stressing the dangers of forgetting original sources. As the 2020 election approaches, they advise users to be patient, think before sharing, question sensationalism, and carefully assess the credibility of sources. These strategies aim to foster a more informed public capable of navigating the complexities of news in the digital age.

Takeaways

• 📰 Social media is not the best source for factual news, yet it becomes the go-to during breaking events.
• ⏳ The rapid pace of information on social media often overshadows nuanced reporting.
• ⚖️ Misinformation and disinformation differ by intent: misinformation is unintentional, while disinformation is deliberate.
• 🤔 People struggle to remember the sources of the information they consume, making it easy to spread inaccuracies.
• 🌀 The current media environment poses a challenge in distinguishing between facts and propaganda.
• 🔍 Clout chasers on social media prioritize likes and shares over content quality, contributing to misinformation.
• 💡 Sharing on social media can have far-reaching consequences, so it's crucial to pause and verify before posting.
• 🧐 Sensational headlines can mislead; always check if the headline matches the content of the article.
• 📜 Trustworthiness of sources is paramount; assess if the source has earned your trust.
• 🗓️ Being patient and letting stories develop can lead to a more accurate understanding of events.

Q & A

What is the primary role of social media during breaking news events?

Social media serves as a rapid source for breaking news, attracting users who want to stay updated in real-time.

How do social media platforms influence the perception of news?

Social media platforms often prioritize sensational headlines, making it difficult for users to discern the most important stories.

What is the difference between misinformation and disinformation?

Misinformation is inadvertently incorrect information, while disinformation is intentionally misleading content aimed at influencing opinions.

What impact does the rapid spread of information have on public understanding?

The quick dissemination of information can create confusion and overwhelm, making it hard for people to determine the truth.

Why might individuals share inaccurate information on social media?

Many users prioritize gaining likes and followers over the accuracy of the content, leading to the sharing of misleading information.

What strategies can individuals employ to avoid spreading misinformation?

Key strategies include being patient, verifying the information before sharing, being skeptical of sensationalism, and considering the source's credibility.

How can the public organize itself around factual information?

The public must prioritize truth and facts over sensational or misleading content, actively seeking reliable sources.

What is the significance of assessing sources in journalism?

Evaluating sources is crucial for ensuring that the information shared is trustworthy and credible, which helps combat misinformation.

What role do 'clout chasers' play in the spread of information on social media?

'Clout chasers' focus on creating content that generates clicks and followers, often at the expense of content quality and accuracy.

What advice is given for consuming news on social media during critical events like elections?

It is advised to be patient, responsible, skeptical of sensationalism, and to carefully consider the sources of information.