The Rise of Fake News in the Age of Social Media and Strategies to Combat Disinformation and Misinformation

Authors : Ersel Kiraz

Pages : 115-142

View : 101 | Download : 974

Publication Date : 2025-11-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study investigates the proliferation of fake news in the age of social media, focusing on its structural, psychological, and technological drivers, as well as the multi-dimensional strategies proposed to counter it. Drawing on an extensive review of interdisciplinary literature from 2015 to 2023, the paper analyzes how social media algorithms, echo chambers, and user behavior contribute to the viral spread of misinformation and disinformation. Particular attention is given to emotional engagement, cognitive bias, and algorithmic filtering, all of which reinforce ideologically homogeneous environments and reduce critical exposure to diverse viewpoints. The review also evaluates countermeasures such as media literacy education, fact-checking systems, artificial intelligence tools, and legal regulations including recent legislative developments in Turkey. The findings highlight that no single approach is sufficient to address the complexity of fake news. Instead, the study advocates for an integrated framework combining technology, regulation, education, and platform accountability. By synthesizing current research and identifying ongoing challenges, this paper contributes to the theoretical foundation for future empirical studies. Ultimately, combating misinformation in digital environments requires not only technical solutions but also a societal commitment to fostering critical thinking and information literacy across all age groups and user communities.
Keywords : Gazetecilik, Medya, Dezenformasyon

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