"Facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored." - Aldous Huxley, Proper Studies
Fake news is no joke. It spreads lies and misinformation, making for an uninformed and confused nation. This guide will help you better understand the phenomenon of fake news, identify why it's pernicious, and undertake ways to combat fake news.
Having an informed citizenry that can sort facts from falsehoods is vital to a thriving democracy, and we can never talk about it too much. You'll find that a lot of tips from the articles below are the same ones we teach students doing scholarly research: check the source to see when and where it was published, investigate the author(s) to see their credentials, read other sources to see if others are reporting the same thing.
The research skills we learn in college are the same ones that help us become responsible, informed citizens. This is what lifelong learning looks like. Join us.
As we gear up for another presidential election cycle, the threat of fake news only intensifies. We'll be updating this site with new resources as they appear. If you find any to add to this list, please email us.
Determining the "best" sources to read will always have some degree of subjectivism, but this chart, prepared by Vanessa Otero, provides one good look at some of the more reliable sources, as well as which ones to avoid.
Read more about the criteria Otero used to prepare the guide here.
You should also consult Forbes' piece, "10 Journalism Brands Where You Find Real Facts Rather Than Alternative Facts."
Lots of libraries have put together guides about fake news, reflecting the profession's focus on critical thinking, and our concern about what fake news does for democracy. Here are a few to consult.
Why does information that conflicts with our worldview affect us so strongly? This cartoon from The Oatmeal explains (complete with some salty language & swear words).
Have a question or comment about the guide? A resource to add? Are you looking for help evaluating sources and making sure you aren't falling for fake news? Please contact us.
