Here’s How You Avoid Getting “Fake News”
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

Here’s How You Avoid Getting “Fake News”

It's totally a choice to be fed lies.

38
Here’s How You Avoid Getting “Fake News”
Emirates247 News

With the war going on between the Trump administration and the mainstream media, it’s hard to know what’s true and what’s false. Here’s how you can sort through all of it, and make sure you’re getting the most accurate information.

1. Use Independent Fact-Checking Websites

Sites like factcheck.org will show you the latest trends in political conversations, and break them down to show you what was said, and what’s on record. If you’re shocked by something someone said, chances are, it’s been fact checked on one of these sites. Steer clear of “fact-checking” from your preferred news network. While they might bring inaccurate information here or there, the image they are portraying is coming through a biased lens. If you want to see a recent example from Trump's last news conference, here’s a fact-checking breakdown.

2. Watch The White House Live Streams

While not everything that Kellyanne Conway, Sean Spicer, or trump himself says, you can listen to them through live streams coming directly from the White House. This is the best way to get your information because you can watch every complete sentence, every shocking statement, and every question that every reporter asks. When you watch recaps on your preferred TV network, they only show clips and one or two questions. Again, this can paint a bias. Watch for yourself, and check facts through independent fact-checkers. You can watch every major event through the White House YouTube channel.

3. Stay Informed

If you don’t do either of the above things, but rather just listen to what people in your surrounding network are saying, chances are, you’re not getting accurate information with the full context. Don’t rely on Mom and Dad, your roommates, your best friend, or your Grandma to tell you what’s going on in the word. They each have their own background and set of experiences that cause them to believe what they do and get passionate about certain issues. While it’s great to ask for people’s opinions, never allow those opinions to be your primary source of information. Do some research and form your own informed opinion. Have something to back up your arguments with.

Getting fake news is a choice. If you don’t take the time to look into the statements of the people who have a direct impact on your day-to-day life and the future of the next generation, you’ve chosen to be a target for fake news.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

113372
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments