On September 5, 2012, a Facebook page titled “R.I.P. Morgan Freeman” was launched, sparking widespread discussion on social media. The story is similar to what happened in 2010 when false news of Morgan Freeman’s death spread on Twitter worldwide. These incidents illustrate how quickly misinformation spreads.
Why fake news spreads so fast on social media
The ease with which content can be created and shared on social media makes it fertile ground for spreading misinformation. The virality of these platforms allows for incredible stories to be told, without fact checking and peer review. This creates a breeding ground for misinformation.
What impact does big data have on social media?
The “fourth example” of information creation is the big data transformation. It has the potential to change our understanding and access to knowledge. This data can be accessed through social media and can have a wide range of influences, including academia, government, industry and the general public. However, that influence should not be used only for social purposes.
Should social media be considered reliable evidence?
The debate over social media analytics continues. Researchers need to be careful when using social science data, even if it can yield useful insights. Social media platforms are events in their own right and content may not accurately reflect actual events or trends. A researcher who must conduct social media research must be aware of the limitations or biases of his or her data sources.
What are the challenges of using social media as a data source?
Disinformation and bias are two of the biggest challenges in social media data analysis. These platforms can easily spread lies to such an extent that their influence can change the reality of certain events. Furthermore, algorithms that control viewing or sharing content can introduce biases and make it difficult to obtain a representative sample.
How can we navigate the truth in the age of social media?
More and more truths are being revealed on social media. It is important for people to be critical and skeptical about the information they find online. Verifying the accuracy of sources is important. It is also important to understand their limitations and biases, for both consumers and researchers.
What is the future of social media and big data?
As both change, Big Data and social media will continue to evolve. With so much content available on social platforms it will be a challenge to find the right balance to ensure accuracy and reliability. Developing sophisticated data analytics tools, and increasing our digital literacy, can help us navigate this challenging terrain.
The death of Morgan Freeman, as a news story on social media, is a reminder of the challenges and responsibilities of social media in this age of big data. It is important to be cautious about the power and limitations of social media as a source of information.
