Fake news is on the rise. Social media and easily accessible gadgets have increased access to information. However, this has also increased the spread of fake news that has the potential to deter peace and cohesive co-existence in our communities.
URI MENA organises various cultural cafes, with one focusing on how to identify fake news. Initiatives like these support our communities access to healthy and resourceful information that bridges gaps, creates peace and harmony, and connects people.
Social media are part of our daily life. People use social media to find out about current events and news and there is a particularly large amount of Fake News in social media.
People keep sharing Fake News for various reasons, such as political intentions, hate and discrimination, and economic interests. While talking about Fake News it is important to distinguish between three different types of Fake News: falsified news, invented stories, and “twisted” truths.
People believe certain Fake News because they like to believe things that confirm their point of view. Often Fake News provides a simple answer for a complex issue and thus makes it easier to believe in. Furthermore, people cannot notice everything happening, especially not outside of each other’s focus. Thus, they lose a wide-angle view and are trapped in their filter bubble.
Exactly this dynamic is dangerous in case of radicalization and political extremes. Especially because of this, it is very important to be aware of Fake News and check news before sharing it with others. For checking Fake News, start by questioning the message, the image, and the source. When it comes to responding to Fake News it’s the first step to share with other users why it might be Fake News.
It is very helpful to share your background knowledge and prove it scientifically (e.g., statistics, scientific facts). Further, assign fact checkers with the content or counter with irony and humor (memes).
URI MENA region organized a culture cafe focusing on how to detect fake news.
Watch culture cafe on fake news organized by URI MENA region.
