PROMOTING MEDIA LITERACY TO COMBAT FAKE NEWS AND PROPAGANDA IN THE DIGITAL ERA

Abstract

The rise of fake news and propaganda in the digital age presents significant challenges to information integrity, public trust, and social stability. This chapter explores the role of media literacy in combating misinformation and equipping individuals with critical thinking skills to analyze and evaluate media content effectively. It provides an in-depth discussion on the definitions of fake news and propaganda, their influence on public perception, and the psychological techniques used to manipulate audiences. The chapter highlights how misinformation spreads through social media, algorithm-driven echo chambers, and the amplification of unverified content. To address these issues, the chapter outlines key strategies for promoting media literacy, including educational initiatives, policy interventions, and public awareness campaigns. Emphasizing the need for integrating media literacy into formal education, encouraging fact-checking habits, and implementing technological solutions, this chapter argues that strengthening media literacy is essential for fostering an informed and responsible society. By enhancing critical media engagement, individuals can resist the influence of misinformation and contribute to a more transparent and democratic information ecosystem.