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    Ingles PDF

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    of 4

    ¿Can news on social media be trusted?

    Maria Alejandra Vasquez

    Nataly Robledo Herrera

    EXIGENCIA INGLÉS VII_202415_1002

    Universidad del Norte

    Barranquilla, Colombia

    2024
    ¿Can news on social media be trusted?
    Did you know that 65% of the news on social networks is false? In today's digital age, where

    information spreads rapidly, the credibility of news shared on social media platforms is

    increasingly questioned. Many believe the sheer volume of information on these platforms

    can make it challenging to discern truth from fiction. While some argue that social media

    diversifies voices and offers alternative perspectives, it cannot be denied that social media

    news is easily manipulated to promote agendas. Additionally, the lack of fact-checking

    mechanisms on many social media platforms exacerbates the spread of misinformation. As a

    result, users are often urged to critically evaluate the sources and validity of news they

    encounter online. Despite efforts to combat misinformation, false information can spread

    faster than corrections on social media. So, Social networks may be faster at spreading

    breaking news, but they are easily manipulated

    First, News on social media platforms is often manipulated to suit certain agendas, whether

    political, social, or economic. This manipulation of news undermines the credibility of

    information shared on social media, making it difficult for users to discern truth from

    falsehood. With the ease of creating and sharing content, misinformation and disinformation

    can quickly proliferate, leading to confusion and distrust among users. The viral nature of

    social media amplifies the spread of false information, often outpacing efforts to debunk it.

    Consequently, individuals may unintentionally contribute to the dissemination of

    misinformation by sharing content without verifying its accuracy. This phenomenon

    highlights the need for improved digital literacy skills to navigate the complex landscape of

    social media news. Additionally, the presence of echo chambers and filter bubbles further

    reinforces existing beliefs and biases, hindering critical thinking and open-mindedness.
    Despite these challenges, efforts by platforms, fact-checkers, and users themselves are

    underway to mitigate the impact of misinformation on social media.However, proponents of

    social media argue that these platforms diversify voices and offer alternative perspectives that

    traditional media may not provide. Social media allows individuals from diverse backgrounds

    to share their views and experiences, contributing to a more inclusive discourse. Additionally,

    it provides a platform for grassroots movements and marginalized communities to amplify

    their voices and raise awareness about important issues. Nevertheless, despite the potential

    benefits of diversifying voices, the lack of regulation in social media allows uncontrolled

    spread of false information. While traditional media outlets are subject to editorial standards

    and fact-checking processes, social media platforms often lack stringent measures to verify

    the accuracy of information shared. This unchecked dissemination of false information erodes

    trust in the veracity of news on social media, ultimately undermining its credibility as a

    reliable source of information.

    Second, Social networks play a crucial role in the rapid dissemination of news, exposing

    hidden situations. They also allow people to share images, videos and testimonies in real

    time, which is especially useful during protests, conflicts or natural disasters. In Colombia,

    social media has played an important role, particularly during times of crisis and conflict.

    During the 2019 and 2021 protests, platforms such as Twitter, Facebook and Instagram were

    instrumental in sharing real-time information about the situation on the streets and

    documenting possible human rights violations by the authorities. For example, viral videos

    shared on Twitter showed instances of police violence during the demonstrations, raising

    public awareness and debate about the government's handling of the protests. However, the

    lack of fact-checking and ease of sharing content can lead to the rapid spread of false or

    misleading information. Kenneth Newton said that ‘Social media are the least trustworthy of
    all media’. While social media provides a space for anyone to share information, which can

    be both an advantage and a disadvantage, it is important to recognise that it can help spread

    the truth and disseminate verified information, people can make allegations and what is

    happening at the time.

    In conclusion, the role of social media in disseminating information is a complex dilemma.

    While it is a powerful medium for sharing news, uncovering truth and connecting people

    around the world, it is also susceptible to manipulation and the spread of false information.

    This dilemma forces us to be critical and cautious about the information we consume and

    share online. While social media has the potential to be a positive force for change and

    transparency, it also requires greater responsibility on the part of users and platforms to

    ensure the veracity and integrity of the information being circulated.

    REFERENCES

    Newton, K. (2021). Widespread Reach, not much Influence: Online News and Mass Political
    Attitudes and Behaviour in the UK.
    https://doi-org.ezproxy.uninorte.edu.co/10.1111/1467-923X.13052

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