Can you distinguish between real and fake news on social media? MIT scholars found that the act of considering whether to share news items reduces people's ability to tell truths from falsehoods by 35%. Learn more about the essential tension between sharing and accuracy in the realm of social media, and the potential implications for online news consumption.

Is social media a tool for social cohesion or social division? Learn from Annenberg School for Communication Associate Professors Sandra González-Bailón and Yphtach Lelkes as they take stock of the existing studies and reveal what we know to date. Discover how social media affects our networks, public discourse, and political contexts, and how toxic language and hostility dominate social platforms. Explore the positive and negative effects of social media on social cohesion and polarization, and how policy changes can improve the situation.

In a world where social media is king, how do modern protests form and operate? Zeynep Tufekci offers insightful analysis and firsthand experience in "Twitter and Tear Gas." From the Zapatista uprisings in Mexico to the Arab Spring, Tufekci explores the power and limitations of using technology to mobilize large groups of people. Discover how tear gas empowered protesters in Istanbul's Gezi Park, and why the Occupy Movement refused to use bullhorns in New York. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of governance, culture, and the role of social media in modern protest movements. Recommended for political science, sociology, and communication studies students, as well as activists and organizers, "Twitter and Tear Gas" offers a unique perspective on the role of social media in modern protest movements. Zeynep Tufekci's firsthand experience and scholarly insights provide a nuanced understanding of how protests form and operate in the digital age. This book is relevant to anyone interested in the intersection of technology, culture, and governance, and how social media has changed the way people mobilize and demand change.

Fahrenheit 451 is a novel that imagines a world where books are banned, and possessing them is forbidden. The protagonist, Montag, is responsible for destroying what remains. However, as he burns books day after day, Montag's mind occasionally wanders to the contraband that lies hidden in his home. Gradually, he begins to question the basis of his work. Fahrenheit 451 depicts a world governed by surveillance, robotics, and virtual reality. Dystopian fiction amplifies troubling features of the world around us and imagines the consequences of taking them to an extreme. In many dystopian stories, the government imposes constrictions onto unwilling subjects. But in Fahrenheit 451, Montag learns that it was the apathy of the masses that gave rise to the current regime. Fahrenheit 451 is a portrait of independent thought on the brink of extinction - and a parable about a society that is complicit in its own combustion. Learning about dystopian fiction can help students understand the importance of independent thought, creativity, and individuality in a world that values conformity.

Despite the increasing availability of knowledge and expertise, many people continue to reject expert advice as they fall prey to misinformation. This paradox of ignorance has significant implications for society, from public health to politics. But why do we reject expertise even when we need it? Biases have a role to play in this, such as the Dunning-Kruger Effect. This is a cognitive bias where unskilled individuals overestimate their abilities and knowledge, while highly skilled individuals underestimate theirs. This can lead to a dangerous overconfidence in one's own expertise especially in non-experts, and thus a dismissal of others' advice and knowledge. Another factor influencing the rejection of expert advice is the role of identity and group dynamics. We are more likely to trust those who share our values and beliefs, and less likely to trust those who do not. This can lead to a rejection of expert advice that conflicts with our group's values or beliefs. Furthermore, the influence of social media and echo chambers can amplify misinformation, forming a closed network that is hard for accurate information to penetrate through. The consequences of rejecting expertise can be seen in many areas, from the anti-vaccination movement to climate change denial. But there are steps we can take to combat this paradox of ignorance, such as promoting critical thinking and media literacy, and building bridges between experts and the public. Some resources that could enhance your understanding of ignorance include the works of Steven Novella, who is a proponent of scientific skepticism (questioning the veracity of scientific claims which lack empirical evidence), and former professor of US national security affairs Tom Nichols, who tackles the dangers of anti-intellectualism in The Death of Expertise by Tom Nichols. In conclusion, the paradox of ignorance highlights the need for increased critical thinking and media literacy, as well as efforts to bridge the gap between experts and the public. By understanding the factors that contribute to the rejection of expertise, we can work towards a more informed and engaged society, better equipped to tackle the challenges we face.

Aristotle's Treatise on Rhetoric, written over 2,000 years ago, explores the art of persuasion through communication, which is still relevant today. The three types of persuasive speech Aristotle describes are: forensic rhetoric, which establishes facts and judgments about the past; epideictic rhetoric, which makes a proclamation about the present situation; and deliberative rhetoric, which focuses on the future. The latter is the most effective in achieving change and involves three persuasive appeals: ethos, logos, and pathos. Ethos is how you convince an audience of your credibility, logos is the use of logic and reason, and pathos appeals to emotions. Knowing how to use these rhetorical appeals is essential in persuading others, but also in recognizing when they are being used on you. Understanding and mastering the art of rhetoric can help you communicate more effectively and achieve your goals.

Can AI-generated persuasive appeals sway human opinions on hot social issues? Stanford researchers find out. Chatbots' political persuasion has significant implications for democracy and national security. Discover how AI fared in the experiment and why it calls for immediate consideration of regulations.

Are you using AI-powered writing assistants to help you with your school work? A new study from Cornell University has found that these tools not only put words into your mouth but also ideas into your head. The study shows that the biases baked into AI writing tools could have concerning repercussions for culture and politics. Co-author Mor Naaman, professor at the Jacobs Technion-Cornell Institute at Cornell Tech, warns that apart from increasing efficiency and creativity, there could be other consequences for individuals and society. Read more about this groundbreaking study at Cornell University.

In the world of risk and prediction, are you a hedgehog or a fox? The philosopher Isaiah Berlin wrote about the two animals, with the hedgehog knowing one big thing and the fox knowing many things. Political scientist Philip Tetlock found that foxes were better at predicting than hedgehogs, who were too confident in their forecasts. To be a good forecaster, one needs to be open to new knowledge, have insight into biases, and be willing to acknowledge uncertainty and change their minds. Rather than saying what will happen, good forecasters give probabilities for future events. So, are you willing to be a fox and adapt to changing circumstances, or will you be a hedgehog and stick to one overarching way of looking at the world? By being a fox, you can improve your ability to predict and make better decisions for the future.

How do public ceremonies establish authority? Why do advertisers pay millions for Super Bowl commercials? Michael Chwe's book, "Rational Ritual," answers these questions by exploring the power of "common knowledge." By using game theory, Chwe shows how people coordinate their actions by forming shared knowledge with one another. He applies this concept to analyze a range of rituals across history and cultures, from political ceremonies to public festivals. This book offers a fascinating look at the relationship between rationality and culture, and how game theory can be applied to a broad spectrum of problems." Recommended for social science and humanities scholars, as well as anyone interested in the power of shared knowledge and the role it plays in shaping cultural practices. The book's insights are relevant to fields such as anthropology, sociology, psychology, and communication studies. It may also be of interest to professionals in advertising and marketing, as well as those involved in organizing public ceremonies and events. Additionally, the book offers a unique perspective on the Super Bowl and other major cultural events, making it a great read for sports fans and pop culture enthusiasts.

In academic settings, arguments are often used to convince others of a particular point of view. However, not all arguments are created equal. The success of an argument depends on understanding the audience's beliefs, trusted sources, and values. Mathematical and logical arguments work well because they rely on shared beliefs, but disagreements that involve outside information often come down to what sources and authorities people trust. When disagreements can't be settled with statistics or evidence, making a convincing argument may depend on engaging the audience's values. The challenge is to correctly identify what's important to people who don't already agree with us. Engaging in discussion and being exposed to counter-arguments can help make our own arguments and reasoning more convincing. By understanding the elements that make arguments successful, students can become more effective communicators and critical thinkers in both academic and real-world settings.

Are you someone who loves to write, is passionate about current events and has a desire to uncover the truth? If yes, then a career in journalism may be the perfect fit for you! Journalism is a dynamic and exciting field that involves investigating, reporting, and writing about events, issues, and stories that matter to people. Journalists play a crucial role in society by providing the public with accurate and reliable information. They are responsible for reporting on a wide range of topics, from politics and business to sports and entertainment. They are the eyes and ears of the public, and their work often has a significant impact on people's lives. As a journalist, you can work in a variety of settings, including newspapers, magazines, television, radio, and online media. You can specialize in a particular area, such as investigative journalism, sports journalism, or environmental journalism. You can also work as a freelance journalist, writing for various publications and outlets. To become a journalist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Many universities offer journalism programs that provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the field. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors include journalism, mass communication, and media studies. In addition to formal education, there are certain personal attributes that can help you succeed as a journalist. These include strong writing and communication skills, curiosity, persistence, and the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Job prospects for journalists vary depending on the type of media outlet and the location. However, with the rise of digital media, there are more opportunities than ever before for journalists to work in online media. Some notable employers in the field include The New York Times, CNN, BBC, and Reuters. In conclusion, a career in journalism can be both exciting and rewarding. It offers the opportunity to make a difference in the world by informing the public and holding those in power accountable. So, if you have a passion for writing and a desire to uncover the truth, consider pursuing a career in journalism!

Have you ever wondered why your parents seem so concerned about your mobile phone and its "dangers"? Turns out this is nothing new! Media panic, or emotional criticism against a new medium or technology, has been around for centuries. With each new medium typically comes concern over its addictive and harmful nature. An example of this would be the development of mass printing in Britain in the 18th century, which led to many people protesting against the sudden ability for people to spread "poison continuously flowing through" society. However, history has shown that these concerns often fade over time, and new forms of media take their place. Learning about media panics can provide perspective and help us avoid panicking about the latest technology. Additionally, understanding cultural capital and the role of knowledge about culture in establishing one's position in society can help explain why some individuals may react nervously to new forms of media. By exploring these concepts, students can gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which media affects society and the importance of approaching new technology with caution but also with an open mind.

Are you curious about the risks of artificial intelligence (AI) and how it affects our lives? Check out the thought-provoking article, "What We Missed about Social Media," on JSTOR Daily. The author shares their experience working in social media before it became the corporate giant it is today, and how it has changed the way we interact with each other. Discover how generative AI can dehumanize us, mislead us, and manipulate us, and why we need to be aware of its implications. Don't miss out on this insightful read!

In today's digital age, we're surrounded by algorithms that shape our daily lives in ways we may not even realize. From social media algorithms that decide what content we see to predictive policing algorithms that influence law enforcement decisions, algorithmic culture is ubiquitous and powerful. So, what is algorithmic culture, and how does it shape our lives and perceptions? At its core, algorithmic culture refers to the way algorithms and the data they process have become embedded in contemporary culture. According to Lev Manovich, a leading academic in the field, algorithmic culture is "a new way of producing and representing knowledge based on data analysis, and a new form of power." In other words, algorithms are not just tools but are also shaping the way we understand and interact with the world around us. One example of algorithmic culture in action is the use of predictive algorithms in the criminal justice system. Proponents argue that these algorithms can help prevent crime by identifying high-risk individuals before they offend. However, critics argue that these algorithms reinforce existing racial biases and lead to unfair treatment of certain groups. Another example is the use of recommendation algorithms on social media platforms. These algorithms decide what content we see based on our past behavior and interests, creating a "filter bubble" that can limit our exposure to diverse viewpoints. Despite its potential pitfalls, algorithmic culture also offers new opportunities for creativity and innovation. For example, computer-generated art is a growing field that harnesses the power of algorithms to produce unique and compelling works. As we navigate our increasingly algorithmic world, it's important to understand the ways in which these tools shape our lives and perceptions. By engaging with academic research and exploring new ideas, we can become more informed and empowered citizens in the digital age.

The concept of utopia and dystopia has been explored throughout history in literature and art. While utopias envision a perfect world, dystopias imagine a world where certain trends in contemporary society are taken to extremes, exposing their underlying flaws. Dystopian fiction is a cautionary tale that warns us about the idea that humanity can be molded into an ideal shape. By exploring dystopian literature, we can gain a better understanding of the world we live in and the challenges we face. It encourages us to question our assumptions about the future and to think critically about the society we want to build. By engaging with dystopian ideas, we can become more informed and active citizens, ready to shape a better future for ourselves and our communities.

In 1833, Lydia Maria Child shocked readers with her book "An Appeal in Favor of that Class of Americans Called Africans," denouncing slavery and exposing its power in US politics. Child, together with a small group of activists, were not just antislavery, but abolitionists, convinced that slavery should end immediately and without compensation to enslavers. Despite facing backlash and sexism, Child's activism inspired the formation of the Boston Female Anti-Slavery Society and the first national political gathering of Black and white women, leading to legal protection for Black Americans in Massachusetts.

Are you interested in understanding how language impacts people with disabilities? Flinders University and UK researchers have analysed the use of disability-related taboo words, exploring their negative and positive impact on people with disabilities. The study sheds light on why taboo words continue to be used in a positive way and the grassroots campaigns trying to raise awareness and discourage people from using hurtful words. This article is a must-read for anyone interested in promoting inclusion and understanding for people with disabilities.

Canadian singer, Jully Black, made headlines when she sang her country's national anthem at an NBA all-star game and altered the lyrics from "our home and native land" to "our home on native land" in solidarity with indigenous communities. This small change has sparked a larger conversation about Canada's history of oppression and assimilation of indigenous people, and the need for reconciliation. While some have criticized the change, many have praised it as a model for all Canadians. This issue raises important questions about identity, power, and representation, and highlights the role of music and art in social and political activism.

Are you tired of the toxic polarization in politics? A recent study from UC Berkeley found that simple bipartisan commitments to the old-fashioned ideals of American democracy may offer a way to ease this polarization and increase positive feelings among voters on all sides. The innovative research, released in the journal Nature Human Behaviour, found that both Republicans and Democrats expressed strong support for hallmark democratic practices, but support erodes when voters on one side believe their opponents are hostile to those values. If you want to learn more about how to increase people's willingness to adhere to democratic norms, check out the full article from UC Berkeley!