The Internet is a revolutionary tool for finding information, providing direct access to billions of documents, pictures, sounds, videos, and much more. But judging whether such information is reliable can be a daunting or tricky task. In some cases, this material is misleading or misinformed. In extreme instances, it is potentially harmful, such as websites supporting the use of illegal drugs, placing anorexia nervosa and bulimia in a positive light, or explaining methods of suicide. Plus, false information in the form of "fake news" is so overabundant and influential that it has even shaped elections and affected national policies.
Information Crisis, Second Edition discusses the scope and types of information available online and teaches readers how to critically assess it and analyze potentially dangerous information, especially when teachers, editors, or other information gatekeepers are not available to assess the information for them. This newly updated and expanded edition also covers news shared via social media, fake news sites, and more.
Chapters and topics include:
- The Internet as an information tool
- Critical analysis and how to spot fake news
- Traps, tricks, and legal issues
- Protecting personal safety and identity
- Types of online information.