Social media is linked to social conflict, civil disobedience and political violence. This is the conclusion reached by researchers at Augusta University in their new study, which analyzed 150 countries over a period of 19 years. For the experts, there is no question that the social web has an influence on today's society.

Threatening polarization

According to scientist Lance Hunter, more and more people are spending more and more time on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Co, which has a major influence. Social media would be particularly dangerous if used to spread fake news, promote polarization and ultimately have the potential to result in political violence.

However, according to the expert, all of this also depends on socio-economic factors - whether the systems are democratic or non-democratic. But according to Hunter, the economic situation of a country also plays an important role.

Label fake news

The fact that social media companies are labeling questionable posts that have been proven to be false after checking the facts is an important step. According to the study authors, users' awareness of fake news can be increased, which ultimately puts a stop to polarization and radicalization.

Source:

Press release

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