Sinan Aral: How we can protect truth in the age of misinformation

The video discusses the impact of fake news, starting with a 2013 incident where Syrian hackers spread false news via the Associated Press Twitter account, causing a stock market crash. It highlights Russian interference in the 2016 US election and the spread of misinformation on social media. A study reveals that false news spreads faster and wider than true news, driven by human interest in novelty. The role of bots is examined, but humans are deemed primarily responsible for misinformation spread. Emerging threats like synthetic media are discussed, along with potential solutions such as labeling, regulation, and transparency.

How do bots influence the spread of misinformation according to the findings?

What are the two technologies mentioned that are expected to worsen the spread of misinformation?

What potential solutions were discussed to address the spread of misinformation?

What ethical questions arise from the use of technology in defining truth and falsity?