University of Notre Dame
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Visual Expressions to Counter Digital Misinformation

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posted on 2017-04-13, 00:00 authored by Enrique Colón

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

2017-04-13

Date Modified

2022-05-24

Research Director(s)

Andre Murnieks

Degree

  • Master of Arts

Degree Level

  • Master's Thesis

Language

  • English

Program Name

  • Art, Art History, and Design

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