Information Pollution

Information pollution is a term referring to all the garbage out there in the world that gives you incorrect and misleading information. There are some common forms to know about:

  • Misinformation: Information that is incorrect and false but appears to be true.

  • Disinformation: Information that is purposely incorrect and false in an attempt to mislead and manipulate. It may not always be incorrect, but it will always be meant to manipulate an audience.

  • Propaganda: Incorrect or misleading information used to publicize and promote an idea.

  • Conspiracy Theories: An idea that is false and misleading that focuses on some agency or group being responsible for an event. If it can be proven real--like really proven with actual evidence--then it's no longer a conspiracy theory but an actual conspiracy.

  • Hoax: Some sort of deception meant to deceive and mislead.

  • Information Overload: Having too much information or data. Sometimes this is done on purpose to frustrate people.

  • Echo Chambers: When you encounter only ideas that reinforce your pre-existing ideas without seeing new or different ideas. Your thoughts and information is reinforced, even if it might be wrong.

  • Filter Bubbles: When a search algorithm gives you information you want but not what you may need. Their reinforces your ideas, even if they're incorrect ideas.

  • Deep Fakes: Typically video or audio that is generated using AI and other computer programs to create something that is unreal but looks real. These can be generated by Hollywood for a film, or by some random person to generate fake news or to besmirch someone.

  • Fake News: When a news story that isn't real gets out in the public. It could be satirical, like The Onion, or it could be straight up lies from propaganda or clickbait to make more money.

Artwork: Dixon, S. (2023, December 10). Information Pollution [PNG]. Canva. https://www.canva.com/create/social-media-graphics/

What Can You Do about Information Pollution?

  • Well, for starters, be aware of it. Know that it is out there. Awareness is key. Try some prebunking exercises that will train you to spot questionable and dubious information before it manipulates you.

  • Slow down. Don't go sharing stuff immediately. I know, you see something crazy and you want to share it with your friends and family. But don't. Take some time to digest it. Maybe you'll rethink the need to share.

  • Use lateral research to find out more. Look it up. Fact check that. Use Wikipedia or other unbiases resources to confirm or deny it.

  • Can you report it? Depending on what tool you're using, you might be able to report it for being incorrect and false. Or share with others that you discovered this misleading information and provide links to the correct info.