Misinformation in the Age of Social Media
by Lauro Amezcua-Patino, MD, FAPA and Vincent Perez-Mazzola
In our increasingly interconnected world, the spread of information has become instantaneous and far-reaching, thanks mainly to the rise of social media. However, with this rapid dissemination of information comes the growing challenge of distinguishing truth from falsehood. Terms like misinformation, disinformation, lies, and propaganda have become commonplace in discussions about the digital age, but understanding their nuances is crucial.
The intent behind these terms can vary greatly, with some individuals inadvertently spreading false information while others deliberately seek to deceive and manipulate. This blog post delves into the differences between misinformation and disinformation, the responsibilities of those who share information, and the impact of these phenomena on our society. By exploring these topics, we aim to shed light on the importance of critical thinking, vigilance, and compassion in navigating the complex landscape of modern information.
Understanding Mis-information and Dis-information
Mis-information, dis-information, lies, and propaganda are terms bandied about to describe what is currently happening with information in our world. What do these terms mean, and how do they affect us? The main difference between mis-information and dis-information is intent. Mis-information is providing incorrect information. One might do this intentionally as part of a dis-information campaign or unwittingly based on naivete, ignorance, and/or personal bias.
Dis-information, on the other hand, is a directed and purposeful use of information to manipulate the reader, listener, or viewer with a nefarious purpose in mind. Simply put, communicators of mis-information may be doing so by mistake. Purveyors of dis-information are always doing so on purpose. One is a mistake; the other is a strategy.
The Responsibilities of Information Purveyors
The differentiation does not give mis-informers a pass, however. Mis-informers should do their utmost to correct any incorrect information they put out. Especially if their initial intent was to promote truth or fact and they did so poorly due to a lack of clarity or poor research methodology. Those participating in dis-information are deliberately deceptive with the information they provide. Whether for political reasons, to gain or maintain power, or any other objective, it is purposeful and targeted. They know that what they write, say, or broadcast is entirely false, inaccurate, and misleading. It is part of a targeted strategy for their gain.
Vigilance Against Mis-information and Dis-information
When one is listening to a broadcast, reading a blog, or scrolling through a feed, one must remain vigilant against both. One must ask the question, “Is this misinformation that I am receiving?” If yes, the next question should be, “Is this simple ignorance on part of the broadcaster, or is it part of a targeted disinformation campaign?” If you suspect deception, ask what might be the purpose of such. Is it to get you to vote a certain way, to buy something, or to influence your behavior? If a source preaches fear and/or hate, that is a giant red flag. Another obvious tipoff, particularly on social media, is the " Breaking News action line!” This signals you to take a step back and say, “Where is this coming from, and who is providing it?”
The Shift from True News to Reported Opinion
It is an unfortunate fact that true news has gone by the wayside, replaced with reported opinion that is presented as news. Therefore, all information must be taken with a grain of salt. In the past, news was vetted by an editorial staff committed to printing unbiased events and facts. That no longer exists. Therefore, it is incumbent on the reader, watcher, or listener to interpret provided information with logic, some healthy skepticism, and critical thinking. The skills are not well taught in our schools. This makes us easy pickings for targeted mis- and dis-information campaigns. Whether for increased voter appeal or profit, these sources do their utmost to manipulate and control those absorbing their data.
The Modern Impact of Mis-information and Dis-information
So, what is the big deal? We have been advertised, marketed, and lied to for years. The difference now is that the number of people who can be affected and the ramifications of such are much, much higher. The anti-vaxx campaigns of the last few years are a good example. A relatively straightforward fact — a global pandemic — became a political tool. Businesses that own media sources use the resulting polarization to increase their viewership for profit. Behaviors such as taking or not taking the vaccine were affected, resulting in 25% of all fatalities worldwide from COVID in a country with only 3% of the global population, a huge drop in global perception of the US, and continued battles over who is right. Simply put, it cost lives, damaged our standing on the world stage, and continues to threaten our democratic system.
Why Mis-information and Dis-information Are So Dangerous
The rapid spread of information is both a blessing and a curse. While it has the potential to educate and enlighten, it also provides fertile ground for the proliferation of mis-information and dis-information. The dangers posed by these falsehoods are manifold, impacting individuals and entire societies. Here are several reasons why mis-information and dis-information are particularly perilous:
Erosion of Trust: Mis-information and dis-information erode trust in critical institutions such as the media, government, and scientific community. When people are repeatedly exposed to false information, they become skeptical of all information, even that which is accurate and reliable. This skepticism undermines public trust in institutions that are vital for a functioning democracy and societal cohesion.
Polarization and Division: False information often exploits and exacerbates existing societal divisions. Dis-information campaigns are frequently designed to polarize public opinion by emphasizing divisive issues and pitting different groups against each other. This polarization makes it more difficult for societies to reach consensus on important issues and weakens the social fabric.
Impact on Public Health: The spread of false information can have dire consequences for public health. For example, dis-information about vaccines has led to reduced vaccination rates, resulting in outbreaks of preventable diseases. During the COVID-19 pandemic, misinformation about the virus, treatments, and vaccines contributed to confusion, fear, and ultimately, loss of lives.
Undermining Democratic Processes: Mis-information and dis-information can undermine democratic processes by spreading false information about candidates, parties, and electoral procedures. This can lead to voter apathy, disenfranchisement, and even violence. Dis-information campaigns aimed at delegitimizing elections can erode faith in the democratic system itself, leading to instability and authoritarianism.
Economic Consequences: False information can have significant economic repercussions. Dis-information campaigns targeting financial markets, for instance, can lead to stock market volatility and economic instability. Mis-information about products and services can distort consumer behavior, impacting businesses and economies on a larger scale.
Cognitive Overload and Decision Fatigue: The sheer volume of information, coupled with the presence of false information, can overwhelm individuals, leading to cognitive overload and decision fatigue. When people are bombarded with conflicting information, they may become paralyzed, unable to make informed decisions. This can affect everything from personal health choices to political participation.
Manipulation and Exploitation: Dis-information is often used as a tool for manipulation and exploitation. Bad actors, whether state-sponsored or independent, use dis-information to manipulate public opinion, influence elections, and achieve strategic objectives. This manipulation can have far-reaching consequences for national security and global stability.
Long-term Cultural Impact: Over time, persistent exposure to mis-information and dis-information can alter cultural norms and values. When false narratives become ingrained in the public consciousness, they can shape societal attitudes and behaviors in harmful ways. This long-term cultural impact can be difficult to reverse and may affect future generations.
The dangers of mis-information and dis-information cannot be overstated. They erode trust, polarize societies, harm public health, undermine democracy, cause economic damage, overwhelm individuals, and manipulate public opinion. Addressing these threats requires a concerted effort from individuals, institutions, and governments to promote media literacy, critical thinking, and responsible information sharing.
Historical Context and Current Challenges
This is not the world’s first rodeo, however. Mis- and dis-information have been tools of control for centuries. However, now it is widespread, and in a society without censorship and the right of free speech, it is now a tool that can be used for ill. I would never fight for censorship or the infringement of free speech, but I would also never yell, “FIRE!” in a crowded theater. Unfortunately, that is exactly what many are doing now. And that cry is inciting panic and fear in many. Opinion, advertising, and marketing are not facts. They are interpretations of facts.
A good example is advertising for nutritional supplements. Since they are neither considered foods nor drugs by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), they do not control their manufacturing. They have put limits on the labeling, advertising, and claims being made to better protect the consumer. Yet, supplement manufacturers can claim that a product may help to heal, cure, or mitigate a health issue, but they cannot guarantee that they do, unlike drugs that must go through rigorous and expensive trials to prove that they are both effective and relatively safe. We know that a little blue pharmaceutical can help your erectile dysfunction, but there are no such guarantees with powdered Rhino horn.
The Role of Influencers and Media Personalities
Recently, podcast giant Joe Rogan stirred up controversy with his anti-vaxx guests. Joe is an MMA fan and practitioner as well as a comedian, not a virologist, research scientist, or medical doctor. His main aim in his job is not public health but viewership. A viewership that is more and more anti-vaxx due to the high percentage of pseudo-macho men who are seeking a tribe in which to feel masculine, tough, and secure. Joe speaks to them. Is Rogan then a mis-informer who is controlled fully by Spotify, which is engaging in dis-information for gain, or does he share some responsibility for what is said on his show?
Millions listen to Joe Rogan; few listen to the podcaster next door. If Rogan were an old-school journalist, he would interview guests with opposing views and moderate the discussion. Such a model used to exist — Crossfire, Point Counter Point, and others that have seen their days pass. Those shows wanted viewers, listeners, and readers to think and not just to believe. It forced the viewer to consider the opposing side through civil discourse. We need more shows like that now.
60–70% of the country have more moderate views on most subjects. The polarized extremes are simply the loudest voices in the crowd. People like Rogan need to provide both sides of the discussion to their audiences and do so in a format that re-teaches intelligent and civil discourse. Joe, if you are reading this, take a stand with your bosses and get yourself out of the corner into which you have been painted. In the long run, it will help your show’s longevity and potentially save lives.
The Role of the Younger Generation and the Path Forward
It will take leadership in our homes, communities, and media to bring balance back to our country. I, for one, have hope. The largest developing voter block is young people. They have grown up with social media and understand that they are being marketed too rather than informed. They tend to lean away from extremism on either side and care less about race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation than their parents and grandparents. Their challenge is that they feel powerless. They feel that they have no say. This is how extremists take control. Not because they are more powerful, but because the masses do not actively counter them. For most Americans, this is the case. Our silence emboldens and empowers the extremists.
Of course, actions in the voting booth, on your electronic devices, and with your wallet will manifest the changes needed to heal. Taking away this voting block by questioning the integrity of elections, the very thing that makes us a democracy, is the only play left. The attacks on the veracity of our electoral process chip away at the foundation of our society. It is an attack manufactured by those desperate to win at any cost.
The Importance of Compassion and Critical Thinking
Remember too that those extremists of any flavor are acting out of fear. Attacking that fear has its challenges. On a personal level, the best way to counter the fear that manifests itself as avoidance or aggression is with compassion. You cannot attack and argue away irrationality. The light of logic needs to be walked into willingly by those in the dark. You cannot drag someone kicking and screaming into it. Like Gollum, they will reject it and scuttle back into their shadow world where, dark as it may be, it is comforting to them.
Though we are all fatigued from these past few years of uncertainty, compassion is the best tool for rectifying the situation. Do not assault or attempt to pop others’ bubbles. Instead, extend a hand of compassion, knowing that they are fearful, and show them by word and deed where to find the light. Listen non-judgmentally and understand that much of the irrationality stems from fear, ignorance, and a longing for security.
Do not allow discussions to devolve into arguments or zero-sum games. Issues are complex, as are the solutions. Begin with this premise when starting a dialog with these people much like one would do with a frightened child. Let them cry themselves out before you begin to challenge their assumptions compassionately and patiently. In the meantime, buttress yourself against the information war raging around us. Use the brain given you to examine and question everything. Use the heart given you to extend compassion to those lost. And, of course, vote! The silence of many needs to be counteracted by the action of those many so that we may keep a balanced, fair, and free society while helping to heal the
Final Thoughts
Navigating the digital age requires a keen understanding of the landscape of information and the motivations behind its dissemination. Mis-information and dis-information represent two sides of a coin that, while different in intent, both pose significant threats to our collective understanding and decision-making. The former often stems from ignorance or carelessness, while the latter is a calculated attempt to deceive.
In a time when true news is often overshadowed by sensationalist reporting and opinion masquerading as fact, we must take responsibility for the information we consume and share. This means applying critical thinking, asking the right questions, and maintaining a healthy skepticism toward sources that incite fear or division.
Media personalities and influencers like Joe Rogan have a platform and, with it, a responsibility to present balanced views and foster intelligent discourse. Their influence on public opinion is immense, and their actions can have far-reaching consequences.
Our younger generations, growing up immersed in social media, represent a beacon of hope. They are keenly aware of the manipulative nature of much of the information they encounter and show a tendency towards moderation and inclusivity. However, their perceived powerlessness must be addressed. They need to realize that their voices and actions, particularly in the voting booth and through conscientious consumption, can drive the change we desperately need.
Ultimately, combating the tide of mis-information and dis-information requires a collective effort rooted in compassion and critical thinking. We must extend empathy to those misled by fear and ignorance, and work patiently to guide them towards the light of reason. At the same time, we must be vigilant, informed, and active participants in our democracy, using our votes and voices to counter the silence that empowers extremists.