2023/09/02　第201回例会TOPIC

この回は英会話サークルE’s clubとの共催です。

< TOPIC 1 : Fake News > https://youtu.be/9dfWzp7rYR4

     Fake news refers to the deliberate creation or dissemination of baseless and false information. It primarily spreads through the Internet and social media, but traditional media such as television and radio can also be platforms for its propagation. The intention behind fake news is to distort the truth and influence people’s opinions and behaviors. The issue of fake news has escalated significantly due to the rapid dissemination of information and the widespread use of social media. Social media platforms offer a convenient tool for users to instantly share information, but it also increases the risk of rapid dissemination of false information. Fake news dissemination is sometimes orchestrated by groups with specific political agendas or economic interests. The impact of fake news is severe and can lead to various problems. When false information is mistaken for truth, it can influence people’s decision-making and create social chaos or panic. During election periods, the spread of fake news can distort the political landscape and erode trust in credible media sources. To combat the spread of fake news, improving media literacy is crucial. Individuals need to critically evaluate information and verify the reliability of their sources. Social media platforms and news media also bear the responsibility of verifying information and implementing measures to prevent the spread of fake news. Some platforms have worked on improving algorithms to curb the dissemination of fake news and take actions against unreliable sources, but continuous improvement is necessary. Furthermore, strengthening laws and regulations is essential in addressing fake news. However, it is important to strike a balance that does not infringe upon freedom of expression. Governments and law enforcement agencies must take appropriate measures against deliberate dissemination of false information while safeguarding press freedom and freedom of speech. In conclusion, fake news is a significant challenge in contemporary society, and it requires cooperation between individuals and organizations to tackle it. Enhancing media literacy and implementing technological measures are vital in pursuing truth and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of information. Simultaneously, efforts to raise awareness about fake news should involve the entire society.

Q1. When you first saw this video, did you find it believable?

Q2. Do you know any specific examples of fake news?

Q3. What mindset is necessary to discern fake news?

Q4. While the veracity is uncertain, it is said that many governments have organizations or supportive entities to spread fake news both domestically and internationally. What are your thoughts on this?


< TOPIC 2 : Bias >

     We all are biased. A bias is a tendency, inclination, or prejudice toward or against something or someone. Our way of thinking and perspectives are influenced by our past experiences, information around us and what others do and say, etc. For instance, we tend to unconsciously judge a person who raided in the U.S. as extroverted and talkative since we have seen Americans having these personalities on TV or in some media. It goes without saying that we have various biases in our daily life. Some work positively, while others work negatively. I would like you to look back at your action and perspective, and then take advantage of “bias” in your life.

Q1. Would you elaborate on biases that you know?

Q2. Please share what kind of bias you have and your experiences about the bias. Did the bias work negatively or positively?

Q3. How do you deal with biases? How can we avoid having biases or them affecting us negatively? Please share what your group discussed regarding Q2 or Q3.

[引用元] https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/bias 
[参照元] 勘違いが起こるバイアス10種類【思い込みの原因・不可避】 | Cupuasu（クプアス） Three Ways To Avoid Bias In Decision-Making (forbes.com)