Visual Expressions to Counter Digital Misinformation
The vast array of news and information available online enables individuals to seek out sources more in-line with pre-existing beliefs. Selective exposure to content facilitates the formation of homogeneous echo chambers which limit exposure to dissenting points of view. As a result, it is increasingly difficult for individuals to distinguish between reliable facts and misinformation, a trend which contributes to increased sociopolitical polarization. In fact, a recent survey finds that Americans are more politically divided today than at any other point in nearly a quarter of a century. Given the serious ramifications of digital misinformation, this study advances a new subcategory of Internet memes, identified as infoMemes, as viable countermeasures: First, by establishing infoMemes as a practical method for dissemination of verifiable facts; second, by advancing guidelines for their production and diffusion across social platforms. The objective is to empower practitioners such as journalists and activists with a better understanding of the techniques, tools, and skills required to produce content capable of countering the adverse effects of digital misinformation.
History
Date Created
2017-04-13Date Modified
2022-05-24Research Director(s)
Andre MurnieksDegree
- Master of Arts
Degree Level
- Master's Thesis
Language
- English
Program Name
- Art, Art History, and Design