Abstract
Purpose
One of the emerging factors in society in the late 2010s has been the development of – and reaction to – the concept of “fake news”. News that is propagated around the world but isn’t true is hardly a new phenomenon, as propaganda has existed for centuries, and been used especially during war time to direct people’s thoughts and opinions. However, propaganda is state-led, and has occurred in the past almost because of the lack of information channels available. In 2020, there are more information channels in existence than ever before, and yet fake news is suddenly a major issue.
Design/methodology/approach
This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds his/her own impartial comments and places the articles in context.
Findings
One of the emerging factors in society in the late 2010s has been the development of – and reaction to – the concept of “fake news”. News that is propagated around the world but isn’t true is hardly a new phenomenon, as propaganda has existed for centuries, and been used especially during war time to direct people’s thoughts and opinions. However, propaganda is state-led, and has occurred in the past almost because of the lack of information channels available. In 2020, there are more information channels in existence than ever before, and yet fake news is suddenly a major issue.
Originality/value
The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.
Subject
Library and Information Sciences,Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management,Library and Information Sciences,Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management