CIS-A2K/Events/Roundtable on Mis/Disinformation
The roundtable discussion on dis/misinformation hosted by CIS brought together diverse voices to explore the impact and nuances of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation. The participants included researchers, journalists, and digital content creators, each bringing a unique perspective to the table. The roundtable began with introductions and setting the initial context of the discussions, emphasising the importance of democratic conversations grounded in good faith. The primary goal of the roundtable was to gather diverse perspectives and foster a more comprehensive understanding of disinformation's impact beyond typical tech-focused solutions. Following this, there was a presentation on CIS's work on disinformation since 2020, which highlighted CIS’s efforts in drafting the Global Disinformation Index Report and examined the impact of disinformation in India. The roundtable concluded with a presentation by Meta showcasing their ideas for limiting mis-/disinformation on their platform, and received feedback and critique from the participants on these ideas. Total 15 persons participated in this event organised at Jaymahal Palace, Bengaluru on 17 October 2023.
Key Themes and Discussions
[edit]- The Social Dynamics of Misinformation:
The conversation highlighted that misinformation often thrives because it aligns with existing biases and emotional triggers. People tend to believe and spread information that confirms their pre-existing beliefs, making it difficult to counteract false narrati An example discussed was the 1995 Ganesh idol "drinking milk" phenomenon, which was fueled by religious sentiment and collective belief, demonstrating how misinformation can spread rapidly when it resonates with cultural or emotional factors.
- Psychology Behind Disinformation:
The psychological appeal of misinformation was emphasised, particularly how it exploits confirmation bias. People are more likely to accept information that confirms t assumptions or desires, leading to the rapid spread of false narratives. The burden of proof often shifts to those trying to debunk misinformation, creating an asymmetry where it becomes difficult to challenge widely accepted but false belief
- Impact of Technology on Misinformation:
While technology, particularly social media, plays a significant role in the dissemination misinformation, the participants stressed that misinformation is not solely a technological problem. Historical examples were provided to show that misinformation existed long before the digital age. However, technology amplifies the reach and speed of misinformation. The discussi noted the importance of understanding algorithmic transparency and the role of social media platforms in curbing or facilitating the spread of disinformation.
Challenges in Countering Misinformation
[edit]The group discussed the difficulty in countering misinformation, especially when it h deep social and psychological roots. Efforts to debunk false information are often met with resistance or are less effective due to the emotional investment people have in certain beliefs. The discussion also touched on the need for more grassroots approaches and localised solutions that consider the specific cultural and social contexts in which misinformation spreads.
- The Role of Media and Education:
The conversation underscored the role of media and education in addressing misinformation. Participants pointed out the need for responsible journalism and media literacy to empower individuals to critically evaluate information. There was a call for educational initiatives that go beyond digital literacy, focusing on critical thinking and the social responsibility of both content creators and consumers.
- Regulatory and Policy Considerations:
The role of government regulation and policy in combating misinformation was debated. While there was acknowledgement of the need for some form of regulation, concerns were raised about the potential for censorship and the balance between regulation and free speech. The idea of collaborative efforts between tech companies, governments, and civil society was proposed as a way to create a more holistic approach to tackling misinformation.
- Community and Grassroots Efforts:
Participants emphasised the importance of involving communities, especially marginalised groups, in the conversation about misinformation. There was a recognition that misinformation often disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, and solutions should be inclusive and representative of these groups. The potential for community-owned media and localised content was discussed as a way to foster more accurate and relevant information sharing.
- The Evolving Nature of Misinformation:
The roundtable concluded with reflections on the evolving nature of misinformation. technology and society change, so too do the methods and impact of misinformation. There was a consensus that ongoing research, adaptation, and collaboration are essential to effectively address these challenges in the future.
The roundtable on dis/misinformation highlighted the complex interplay between technology, social behaviour, and education in addressing the spread of false information. The participants' diverse perspectives underscored the need for multifaceted approaches that include technological solutions, educational initiatives, and inclusive community engagement.
The discussion made it clear that while technology plays a significant role in the spread disinformation, human factors such as psychological biases and cultural influences a equally important. Addressing disinformation effectively requires a holistic approach that considers all these elements. As disinformation continues to evolve, ongoing dialogue and collaboration across sectors and communities will be essential in developing effective strategies to counter its impact. Future efforts must prioritise inclusivity, ensuring that all voices, especially those from marginalised communities, are part of the conversation and the solution.