ABSTRACT
This chapter takes a close look at the broad array of information in our media choices. It describes the types of misinformation and disinformation. The chapter helps students to understand why accurate information is important to a functioning democracy. It explains the reasons for the rise in misinformation and disinformation. The chapter describes the common cognitive biases that help explain why humans fall for misinformation and disinformation. It explains why conspiracy theories are hard to disprove and helps students to identify the various approaches to address misinformation and disinformation by tech companies, government, news outlets and educational efforts. The chapter explores what social media platforms are doing to combat misinformation and disinformation. Verification will continue to be the responsibility of many different players in the media and technology sector, including us as users and creators.
