KARACHI:
Fake news, an ever-looming spectre in the digital age, stands as a testament to the darker consequences of social media’s influence on public perception. Exploiting the algorithmic nature of these platforms, unscrupulous sources disseminate false information to maximise likes, shares and overall engagement. The repercussions of such misinformation are profound, ranging from unwarranted panic to reputational damage and in extreme cases, threats to public safety. This proliferation of falsehoods preys on emotions, manipulating public sentiment and distorting the collective consciousness.
Social media has become a breeding ground for misconceptions where incomplete narratives and half-truths masquerade as factual information. The ease with which content is shared and reshared contributes to amplifying these misconceptions creating echo chambers where like-minded individuals reinforce each other’s beliefs without critical examination. The algorithms employed by social media platforms further exacerbate the problem by curating content based on users’ preferences and past engagements fostering filter bubbles that limit exposure to diverse perspectives.
In the face of information overload, users find themselves bombarded with a constant stream of news, memes and articles, making it challenging to discern fact from fiction. Driven by the desire to be the first to share breaking news or express their opinions, users may forego the crucial step of fact-checking contributing to a cascade of unverified information permeating the digital landscape. This tendency to share without verification compromises the accuracy of the information and leaves the public vulnerable to manipulation and the perpetuation of inaccuracies. While social media has the potential to connect, inform, and mobilise, it also harbours the risk of becoming a breeding ground for misinformation. To counteract the negative consequences, users must cultivate a critical mindset, fact-check information before sharing, and actively seek diverse perspectives.
Inder Dev
Mithi
Published in The Express Tribune, December 7th, 2023.
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