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The conversation surrounding misinformation, fake news, and fact-checking is constantly evolving. As changing technology changes the way we take in information, new cultural and ethical considerations arise. Here is our weekly round-up of recent readings, podcasts, and other media that addresses the latest issues in fact-checking.
What We’re Reading:
- From ProPublica: Hundreds of PPP Loans Went to Fake Farms in Absurd Places
Hundreds of small business loans were given out to fake companies during the pandemic. While the Paycheck Prevention Program helped numerous small businesses stay afloat, this oversight exposes just how underequipped the federal Small Business Association was in facing such a crisis.
- From the American Association for the Advancement of Science: Correcting misperceptions about, and increasing empathy for migrants
A new study from the Annenberg School for Communication investigated Americans' perceptions of immigrants' motivations for crossing the southern border. It found that Americans dramatically overestimated the number of migrants associated with gangs, and children being trafficked.
Cases in which someone’s image has been used to create fake porn are on the rise. According to one victims' advocacy group, cases have increased by a third each year since 2019.
- From Barron’s The Dangerous Politicization of American Science
Science journalist Kira Peikoff discusses America’s declining trust in science. The nature of Dr. Anthony Fauci’s villainization may lie in the fact that scientists must change their minds as new findings arise. Changing positions doesn’t always look trustworthy in the public eye.
Balenciaga’s latest fashion show was a CGI production: It used one model’s face on different bodies, and the audience was made up of digital clones.
What We’re Watching:
- From Amazon: Debunking Borat
Unused footage from Sacha Baron Cohen’s most recent “Borat Subsequent Moviefilm,” makes up this six-part documentary, in which various experts and political figures (including Hilary Clinton) help to debunk popular conspiracy theories. What works about the approach is its tone of both humor and kindness.
