People need to be more responsible for the information they consume online. In Google and the Misinformed Public, Safiya U. Noble focuses on how Google can spread misinformation and biased information, but this issue goes far beyond search engines. Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, and other online spaces can all spread information that is misleading, false, or completely made up.
One of the best and worst things about the internet is that almost anyone can post anything. This gives people the freedom to share their opinions, experiences, and ideas, which can be a good thing. At the same time, that freedom also allows people to spread misinformation, propaganda, and false claims. Just because something has thousands of likes, views, or shares does not mean that it is true.
This is why people need to develop better judgment when using the internet. Users should question what they are reading, who posted it, what the source is, and whether there is actual evidence behind it. People cannot believe everything they see online and then act surprised when the information turns out to be false.
At some point, users also have to take responsibility for what they choose to believe. Online platforms should be held accountable for the information they promote, but users still have a responsibility to think critically. The internet can expose people to misinformation, but people also have the ability to stop, question it, and look for better sources.
Having unlimited access to information does not automatically make someone informed. People need to learn how to tell the difference between information that has substance and information that is simply designed to influence, mislead, or get attention.
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