Fake News

Misinformation and disinformation are not a new phenomenon. The production, dissemination and sharing of verifiably false and (in the case of disinformation) intentionally misleading content, usually for political or commercial purposes, have always existed. The difference today is that new digital technologies have made it much easier, quicker and more effective to spread fake news. It can now travel the world in the blink of an eye.

Scholars have known for decades that people tend to search for and consume information that confirms what they already believe to be true. Today’s computer algorithms make it possible to instantly reshape the thoughts and perceptions of millions of people. Repeated exposure to false statements can lead people to believe wholly fabricated falsehoods.

Fake news is in the spotlight because of its role in today’s politics. But the business world and the field of economics have also been affected. Identifying fake news is made harder by the fact that it is rapidly becoming an industry all of its own. This critical situation has prompted academics to issue a call to arms, urging internet and social media platforms to work with scholars to evaluate the problem and find soultions. But it is easier said than done.

In this edition of the Library Newsletter we offer a selection of resources available on fake news and how to detect it. Only by using reputable news sources and making the effort to fact-check information can we work toward achieving a more reliable news environment. And remember: good business decisions are always based on good information – which means information that is factual, unbiased and broad-based.

SUCCESS STORIES

En las manos de Dios

“These pages are not meant in any way to offer a study or even a theological analysis of the internal deliberations of Josemaría Escrivá during the last moments of his life on Earth. They are simply personal reflections that I feel compelled to make...”

RESOURCES TIP

Create Historical Averages

Eikon has an average calculator function that lets you calculate historical averages and volatilities on customized lists of instruments.
Access Eikon using the PCs available at the Barcelona (Financial Room) or Madrid Libraries.
 

JUST FOR FUN

Alltrails

Are you an outdoor activities enthusiast? Looking for new trails?
Find everything you need to know on Alltrails, an outdoor guide with information on over 200,000 trails around the world.

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Marketline

The Marketline platform provides easy access to global business intelligence by offering a mix of research data on industries, companies, and geographies.
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