Social Media Ethics and COVID-19: Well-Being, Truth, Misinformation, and Authenticity

The book "Social Media Ethics and COVID-19: Well-Being, Truth, Misinformation, and Authenticity" explores the ethical challenges of social media during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the responsibility of corporate providers, government officials, and users for inaccurate information, the definition of accurate information in a post-truth world, and the use of social media by public health agencies, emergency management agencies, and traditional news media to disseminate or track information.

Format: Hardback
Length: 170 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

Social Media Ethics and COVID-19: Well-Being, Truth, Misinformation, and Authenticity delves into the intricate interplay between social media and ethics, shedding light on the profound impact of the pandemic on various aspects of society. The ethical dilemmas posed by social media have long been a concern, particularly for corporate providers, government officials, and users alike. The outbreak of COVID-19 has further amplified these challenges, highlighting the critical role that social media plays in disseminating information and shaping public opinion.

Corporate providers bear a significant responsibility for inaccurate information posted by users on their platforms. They must implement robust measures to verify and authenticate information, ensuring that users are provided with accurate and reliable data. Additionally, companies should be proactive in addressing misinformation and taking swift action against users who spread false information.

Users also have a responsibility to be mindful of the information they share and the impact it can have on others. They should exercise critical thinking and verify the sources of information before posting or sharing it. Moreover, users should be aware of the potential consequences of spreading misinformation, such as undermining public health efforts and perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

In a world characterized by "post-truth" and polarization, defining accurate information becomes increasingly challenging. Public health agencies, emergency management agencies, and traditional news media play a crucial role in disseminating accurate information during times of crisis. They must rely on credible sources, verify the information before sharing it, and be transparent about their sources.

At the same time, social media platforms have become hubs for communities seeking shared values or experiences. These communities can provide support and comfort during difficult times, but they can also be breeding grounds for misinformation and conspiracy theories. Users must be vigilant in identifying and reporting false information, and social media platforms should take steps to promote transparency and accountability.

In conclusion, social media ethics and COVID-19 present a complex and multifaceted challenge. The interconnection of social media and ethics has led to both positive and negative outcomes during the pandemic. Corporate providers, government officials, and users must work together to navigate these challenges and ensure that social media is used responsibly and ethically. By promoting truth, well-being, and authenticity, we can mitigate the negative impact of misinformation and conspiracy theories and build a more informed and resilient society.

Weight: 410g
Dimension: 160 x 237 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666911862