FAKE NEWS, THE EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA
Keywords:
Keywords:Fake news; misinformation; digital media; social media; deepfakes; political manipulation; psychological factors; public health; cyberbullying; social comparison; mental health; digital addiction; privacy risks; online communication; global connectivity; media literacy; critical thinking; digital society; information verification; online behavior; technology and society.Abstract
Annotation:This text examines the growing influence of fake news and social
media on modern society. It begins by defining fake news and explaining its various
forms, such as fabricated stories, misleading content, manipulated visuals, and satire
taken out of context. The text highlights the severe social consequences of
misinformation, including fear, distrust, political manipulation, damaged reputations,
and threats to public health. It then explores the positive impact of social media,
including improved communication, educational opportunities, business development,
and community building. At the same time, it presents the darker side of social
platforms—addiction, reduced productivity, mental health issues, cyberbullying,
privacy risks, and unrealistic social comparison. The text also explains why fake news
spreads rapidly, noting psychological biases, economic motives, political agendas, and
advanced technologies like deepfakes. In conclusion, the author emphasizes that while
digital tools can be powerful, their impact depends largely on users’ responsibility,
critical thinking, and awareness. By making informed choices, society can harness
technology for unity, truth, and progress rather than division and deception.
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