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Mbulelo Mpofu, mbulelo.smpofu@gmail.com
INFORMATION overload, a phrase synonymous with the digital landscape, has become a hot topic in recent history, making the digital sphere a double-edged sword. While social media platforms promise connectivity and access to diverse viewpoints, they have also morphed into bustling rumour mills — a conveyor belt of false information and narratives.
The term “information overload” has never been more relevant, as users grapple with the challenge of distinguishing fact from fiction in a world where misinformation spreads faster than the truth.
The phenomenon of conspiracy theories has surged alongside this information overload. These elaborate narratives, often suggesting secret plots orchestrated by powerful individuals or groups, captivate and also scare the imaginations of many. From bizarre claims about Michelle Obama being a man to assertions that UFOs are hiding among us, the scope of conspiracy theories seems endless. Other claims, such as the alarming notion that Victoria Falls has dried up, highlight just how easily misinformation can take root.
Moreover, the emergence of Artificial Intelligence has added another layer of complexity, generating deep-fake videos and manipulated images that make it nearly impossible to separate fact from fiction. As these narratives gain traction, they raise urgent questions about the implications of unchecked misinformation.
In a world increasingly dominated by social media, the dangers of misinformation cannot be overstated. Saturday Leisure spoke to different fact-checkers to ascertain how they do it and how best an average social media user can stay clear of misinformation.
Lifaqane Nare, the Executive Director of FactcheckZw, stressed the real-world impact of conspiracy theories.
“They often undermine trust in established institutions like governments and the media. This can lead to a breakdown in social cohesion and make it challenging to tackle pressing issues,” she said.
The ramifications of misinformation extend beyond mere confusion; they can pose serious risks to public health. Nare cited the example of vaccine misinformation, which has contributed to outbreaks of preventable diseases.
“The spread of false information about vaccines can have dire consequences. When people lose trust in vaccines, they jeopardise not only their health but the health of their communities,” she warned.
In the face of this avalanche of falsehoods, fact-checkers have emerged as critical defenders of truth. Nare’s methodology follows international standards set by the International Fact-Checking Network.
“We begin by identifying a claim that must be factual; we don’t fact-check opinions or satire,” she stated.
Evidence is sourced from official and publicly available data, leading to conclusions that can be easily followed by readers. But can conspiracy theories make for compelling stories?
“Absolutely! The narratives are often sensational, and they tap into deep-seated fears and anxieties,” admitted Nare.
This emotional resonance is a powerful fuel for their spread, making it imperative for individuals to remain vigilant.
So, how can social media users navigate this treacherous landscape? Nare offered practical advice.
“Be critical of everything you read. If it evokes strong emotions, be wary. Most false information is designed to provoke a reaction.”
She suggested taking a moment to breathe and ask critical questions: Who authored the information? What might their motives be? Are there perspectives missing from the narrative?
Ranga Mberi, a former newspaper editor and seasoned fact-checker, echoed these sentiments.
“Fact-checking is a structured process.”
His approach involves cross-referencing claims against multiple credible sources, which may include established news outlets, academic studies, or government reports.
“It’s also crucial to consult subject-matter experts when necessary,” he said. Mberi highlighted another facet of misinformation: The manipulation of images.
“Recently, a website claimed there had been a plane crash in Zimbabwe, but they used a photo from a completely unrelated incident that occurred in South Korea,” he said.
To combat this, he recommended reverse image search tools like Google Reverse Image Search or TinEye, which help verify the origins of images and check for manipulation.
Another challenge comes from the context in which information is presented.
“Sometimes, a quote can take on a different meaning when stripped of its full context,” Mberi warned.
Verifying the complete context of statements is crucial in understanding their true implications.
Despite the diligence of fact-checkers, conspiracy theories continue to captivate many. Mberi explained that these narratives thrive on “confirmation bias” — the tendency to believe information that aligns with our existing beliefs.
“We all have biases, and they can cloud our judgment,” he observed.
This makes it all the more essential for media professionals to remain calm and focused on factual reporting.
In this rapidly changing media landscape, the responsibility lies with all consumers of information to cultivate a critical mindset. As they scroll through their feeds, it is essential to question sensational claims and remain sceptical of information that evokes strong emotional reactions.
The work of dedicated fact-checkers like Nare and Mberi is invaluable in this ongoing struggle, shining a light on the often murky waters of misinformation. They underscore the importance of seeking out credible sources and remaining vigilant against the tide of falsehoods that threaten to engulf people’s understanding of the world.
Usually, the truth gets lost in a myriad of information and if care is not taken to check information before carelessly “forwarding” it to the next person, then misinformation will spread like wildfire. — Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
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