Fake News in Context

Fake News in Context defines fake news and explains how it is created, disseminated, and accessed. It also provides methods for identifying fake news and discusses how various literacies can help interpret it. The book concludes by providing strategies for instruction and tips for collaborating with librarians.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 164 pages
Publication date: 18 December 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Fake news, a pervasive phenomenon in contemporary society, has gained significant attention due to its potential impact on public opinion and political discourse. In Fake News in Context, author Farmer delves into the definition and historical background of fake news, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of its origins and evolution. The book explores the various factors that contribute to the spread of fake news, including social media algorithms, political polarization, and the desire for attention and validation.

Farmer also examines the psychological mechanisms that drive people to believe in fake news, such as confirmation bias and the need for social belonging. By understanding these factors, readers can develop critical thinking skills and become more discerning consumers of information.

The book provides a comprehensive framework for identifying fake news, covering the entire communication cycle from creation to dissemination. It explains how fake news is often created through misinformation, propaganda, and the manipulation of facts. Farmer also discusses the use of fact-checking tools and automated algorithms to identify and debunk fake news.

Moreover, Fake News in Context explores the role of various literacies, including news, media, visual, information, digital, and data, in interpreting and analyzing fake news. It emphasizes the importance of media literacy, critical thinking, and digital citizenship in navigating the complex landscape of information.

The book concludes by arguing that individuals and groups can respond and counter fake news, leading to civic engagement and digital citizenship. It provides strategies for instruction and tips for collaborating with librarians, who play a crucial role in combating fake news.

Including a range of international examples, Fake News in Context is a valuable resource for teaching faculty, students of library and information science, communication studies, media studies, politics, and journalism. Librarians and information professionals will also find this book particularly useful in their work.

By understanding the nature and impact of fake news, readers can become more informed and engaged citizens, capable of navigating the digital world with a critical eye and a discerning mind.

Weight: 276g
Dimension: 154 x 234 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367416805