Table of contents
In the batch of information we receive, some of it is reliable and some of it is false. So what should you know about the sources of information? Our article will guide you.
The Internet: a new source of information
This community of users uses this tool for different reasons: to have fun, to share, to buy or receive information, but also to educate themselves. Indeed, the use of Internet content as a source of information is increasingly preferred to other traditional sources of information such as newspapers, radio or news channels, which are themselves used online. Internet users have access to almost the entire world, often free of charge and without having to travel (metro, beach, plane, etc.). Simply put, the Internet is the largest library that has ever existed and is accessible to everyone regardless of their geographical location.
Disinformation: the rise of fake news
Fake news' is a more recent and complex phenomenon than a simple translation. French academic Pascal Froissart (University of Paris 8) defines it as "fake news deliberately published in the media". It can also be used to mislead people or influence public opinion, as was recently demonstrated during the US presidential elections. Last but not least, it is also used to make a profit. Some websites use fake news to attract attention.
Tips for a better analysis of the reliability of news
Assessing the reliability of news is not an easy task. First, always check the source of the information. This can already give a first opinion on its reliability. However, it is advisable to compare different sources and check the reliability of the verification. Similarly, for images that are too often used for manipulation, check whether they correspond to the context to which they are attributed. Using non-Internet media, such as encyclopaedias, can also be a reliable way of verifying the source and seeking expert advice on the subject.