05_Understanding Disinformation and Propaganda

 

What is Disinformation?

 Disinformation is deliberately misleading or biased information, often involving manipulated narratives or facts.

 

 Characteristics of Disinformation

·                It is created with the intention to deceive.

·                Disinformation doesn't always consist of fabrications; it can include true facts that are stripped of context or blended with falsehoods.

·                True facts may be presented in a way that distorts their meaning to support the intended message.

·                Disinformation is always part of a larger plan or agenda designed to influence public opinion or behavior.

 

 

What is Propaganda?

 Propaganda is information, ideas, doctrines, or special appeals disseminated to influence the opinion, emotions, attitudes, or behaviour of a specified group in order to benefit the sponsor, either directly or indirectly.

 

 

Why disinformation and propaganda spread?

 Disinformation and propaganda spread due to several factors related to how our brains consume media:

 

1. Confirmation bias: People tend to seek out information that confirms their existing beliefs or biases, ignoring contradictory evidence.

 

2. Impact of emotions: According to D. Rapp, the human brain finds outrageous information more memorable and engaging than reliable but mundane information. Emotions play a significant role in what information we pay attention to and remember.

 

3. Echo chambers: In digital environments, people often interact with like-minded individuals and sources, reinforcing their own perspectives and shielding themselves from differing viewpoints.

 

4. Lack of critical thinking: Many individuals do not actively engage in critical evaluation of information. They may fail to question sources, credibility, or the motives behind the information they encounter.

 

  By understanding these factors, we can begin to address the challenges posed by the spread of disinformation and propaganda more effectively.