Everyone has heard the term "fake news" - but do you know what it really means? Do you know the difference between misinformation and disinformation? Understanding the various ways that false information is shared, and the motives and appeal behind it, is important in avoiding and combating it.
Term | Definition | Source |
---|---|---|
misinformation | “false information that is spread, regardless of whether there is intent to mislead.” | Dictionary.com |
disinformation |
“deliberately misleading or biased information; manipulated narrative or facts; propaganda.” |
Dictionary.com |
fake news | "purposefully crafted, sensational, emotionally charged, misleading or totally fabricated information that mimics the form of mainstream news" | Fake News: understanding media and misinformation in the digital age (back cover) |
Thank you to our colleagues at the University of Washington Libraries for this definition.
Check out this video to discover how to use CQ Researcher to fight misinformation and find accurate, non-biased reports on a wide variety of timely topics.
Sage Publishing . (2013, Jun 20). CQ Researcher Tutorial Video [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/-My7q6bxCRs
Hot Topics feature shorter, timely reports on the issues in the news.
Issue Tracker helps you track an issue historically by linking to all reports on the topic.
Founded in 1923, CQ Researcher provides original, authoritative reports on newsworthy social and political issues. Covering topics in public policy, law, civil liberties, international affairs, economics, health, education, the environment, technology, and more, CQ Researcher is renowned for its objectivity, breadth, and depth of coverage.
Every report includes:
·Overview of the Issue
·Current Situation
·Chronology
·Pro/Con Debate
·Short Features
·Maps/Graphs
·Bibliography
·Next Steps