Real News Matters

EOTO #2: Misinformation vs Disinformation

After hearing the second half of our EOTO presentations, there was one that stood out to me particularly in so many ways. Not only can the United States relate to this topic, but we live it each and everyday at the end of our finger tips. The importance of understanding how the media really does feed us "fake news," whether intentional or not, is terribly disturbing and concerning for our citizens. So, what is this idea or topic, you might ask? Well, it's the importance of deciphering misinformation verses disinformation: how the media utilizes the term "fake news" to its fullest potential. 

    When explaining the differences between these two terms, one can look at disinformation as a type of misinformation that is intentionally false and intended to deceive or mislead, according to the article. Personally, when reflecting on this, I just get angry and quite honestly, slightly confused on the intent behind it all. Isn't the media supposed to inform us accurately? Do they not want the best interest in our country on feeding us the right information? Why would they try to deceive or lie to us? The answer is simple: bias. Certain news sources, such as CNN or Fox News, each obtain different biases to its audience in order to gain more credit for a higher reputation or a better following. When looking at misinformation, however, this idea refers to false or out-of-context information that is presented as fact regardless of an intent to deceive. It is everywhere online and anyone can be exposed to information that is not entirely accurate. Especially within the last two years, post pro-vaccine and anti-vaccine citizens have formed opinions and created biases around misinformation and disinformation. But, when looking at the two, what's the main difference you might ask? One may say intent. 

Intent is the main difference between these two simply because misinformation may not be entirely true, but it is not intended to deceive you. However, disinformation is meant to mislead you or help you create a bias that is formed around rumors. Honestly, it is sad that our world has come to a place of darkness like this where we try to manipulate people into thinking something that is not accurate or true. But because we know each has different intentions, how can recognize mis- verses disinformation? According to the article, here's how: 

• If information seems too good to be true
• If information plays to your own implicit biases
• If information elicits either extreme positive or negative emotions
• If information is not properly sourced, or the stats appear out of date

These are great ways to look at our news sources. It is vital, for your own opinions, to remember not everything we see is always true. It's also important to check the author, date of publication, the organization, evidence, and at what other sources say when forming an opinion on a subject matter. Always try to figure our where your information is coming from, and remember to stay open-minded when forming opinions. 

Sources:

https://www.dictionary.com/e/misinformation-vs-disinformation-get-informed-on-the-difference/

https://www.businessinsider.com/misinformation-vs-disinformation