Misinformation threatens our values, and democracy.

On the one hand, the speed of digital media is supported by technological developments and algorithms. On the other hand, there is the ease of spreading misinformation. Together, they create one of the greatest paradoxes of our era.

Misinformation has existed throughout history. It’s defined as false or misleading information deliberately created or strategically disseminated for a specific purpose (political, financial, or social). With technological advancements, this concept has reached a level never seen before.

What’s critical is that ordinary people have also become actors in this process. Many of us, even without malicious intent, are right at the center of it.

Information Flow Governed by Algorithms

Digital platforms blur the lines of what “true” information is. They have turned into engines of heavy polarization. These engines are fueled by emotional reactions rather than evidence. Illusions woven by social engineering have begun to be perceived and accepted as “reality.”

Algorithms are at work. We often see the destructive effects of digital content. It highlights fear, anger, and toxic situations. This content does not emphasize reliability and accuracy. It appeals to emotions or social norms.

There are countless examples: influencing elections, social manipulation, climate crisis denial, digital lynchings, reputation attacks, protests…

This situation is seen as a cause of polarization and extremism in many countries. It amplifies the underlying tides, causing them to surge to the surface.

The Delicate Scale Between Illusion and Truth

In her book Building Back Truth in an Age of Misinformation, Leslie Stebbins notes that illusions are repeated continuously. Misinformation is also repeated continuously. This creates a sense of familiarity. As a result, they can eventually be perceived as true.

Thus, she emphasizes that people are inclined to believe such information. This happens even if the information is false. These beliefs are especially reinforced when the information resonates with certain emotions, beliefs, and norms.

The reason is simple: people are influenced by their emotions more than by rational thinking.

Our emotions often help us make intuitive decisions that serve us well. But on the other side lies the vulnerability to manipulation.

People respond more to the emotional state evoked by content than to the content’s substance (or its authenticity). The most shared content is that which evokes strong emotions.

A sensational story grips our attention precisely because it touches our emotions. Even a brief exposure to certain words or images can shape our judgments.

Social media pushes a limited range of content to us eagerly. It urges us to make quick decisions. We are not given much time for reflection. We often don’t realize the emotional manipulation at play.

Stories laden with emotion appeal to our feelings and desires. Storytelling has many positive qualities, such as building community through shared information and culture. Yet, a powerful narrative can also be used as a potent persuasion tool.

Political ads that tap into patriotism, group identity, or an “us vs. them” mindset become persuasive tools. They grab our attention by triggering strong emotions. This convinces us that whatever is being said is true.

Truth, the Cornerstone of Humanity!

In summary, in this digital world where reality and illusion clash, information flow is critical. How it is consumed has become one of the most important issues of our time.

Technology has democratized access to information. Yet it has also exposed the fragile nature of truth. As we navigate the digital realm, it is crucial for each of us to be extremely careful. We must be skeptical to avoid getting lost in the whirlpool of misleading information.

Countering the insidious waves of misinformation isn’t limited to verifying information. It’s also about preserving our social consciousness. We must keep empathy and humanity.

In this information age, being guardians of truth places a heavy responsibility on every individual’s shoulders. This responsibility defends against misleading information. It also expresses our wish for a healthier, more conscious, and more unified society.

Preventing the spread of misinformation also means safeguarding our social fabric, our values, and our democracy. Defending reality will guarantee both human dignity and our collective future…

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