Why does disinformation spread in liberal democracies? The relationship between disinformation, inequality, and the media

Nieminen, Hannu (2024) Why does disinformation spread in liberal democracies? The relationship between disinformation, inequality, and the media. Javnost - the Public, 31 (1). 123 - 140. ISSN 1318-3222

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Abstract

In principle, liberal democracy is about an equal right to decision-making and presumes a public sphere, equally open to all. However, in practice, this normative ideal, articulated, among others, by Jürgen Habermas and John Dewey, is farther away today than ever since WWII. The “real” public sphere, distinguished from its ideal, is harmed by conflicting and divisive interests, often presenting themselves in the form of information campaigns targeting the most vulnerable groups of society. The information offered is often labelled as disinformation, i.e. information that is misleading or purposefully false. However, this article claims that we must distinguish between different uses of the concept of disinformation. Although disinformation campaigns are increasingly harmful for democracy, the label of disinformation can be used to silence necessary critical voices and movements in society, thus promoting a public sphere based on a forced consensus. This article focuses on current European developments, although there are references to the developments in other continents as well. It is based on a review of recent research publications and public policy documents about different aspects of disinformation and inequality.

Item Type:	Article
Official URL:	https://www.tandfonline.com/journals/rjav20
Additional Information:	© 2024 The Author(s).
Divisions:	Media and Communications
Subjects:	J Political Science > JC Political theory H Social Sciences > HE Transportation and Communications H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform
Date Deposited:	14 Jun 2024 13:54
Last Modified:	12 Dec 2024 04:20
URI:	http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/id/eprint/123883

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