Understanding the Art of Fake News: A Critical Analysis of Media Misinformation
The term fake news often conjures images of factually incorrect or misleading statements, particularly when associated with mainstream media. However, the true nature of fake news is more insidious. It involves the use of factually accurate information in a skewed manner to manipulate public opinion. Media outlets like CNN are not immune to this practice, as they can spread misinformation by using biased headlines and selective reporting methods.
The Mainstream Media and Fake News
When people think of mainstream media and fake news, they often picture deliberately fabricated facts designed to brainwash audiences. However, this is a misrepresentation. Mainstream media outlets, such as CNN, are smarter than to fabricate facts. They understand that fake facts can be easily disproven. Instead, they use factually correct statements in a highly skewed context to manipulate public sentiment and spread misinformation.
Case Study: The Bernie Sanders Rally Incident
What Actually Happened:
A random supporter, likely paid by a third party, waved a Nazi flag at a Bernie Sanders rally. This was an isolated incident, not attributable to Bernie Sanders or his supporters.
Did Bernie or His Supporters Do Anything Wrong?:
No. Bernie or his supporters had no control over the actions of individual attendees at the event.
Was CNN Factually Correct?:
Yes, but the context in which the event was presented was highly biased. The news outlet reported on the outcry caused by the Nazi flag and used it to create a misleading narrative.
What Was the Actual Purpose of CNN?:
According to the headline's placement and tone, CNN aimed to imply that Bernie's supporters, if not the candidate himself, were Nazis or unwelcoming of the flag. This was a deliberate attempt to taint Bernie's image and discredit his supporters.
Misinformation through this method achieves the same goal as fake news, even without the use of false facts. CNN's techniques demonstrate how bias and selective reporting can effectively misinform the public.
Another Example: The Hostile Media Narrative
What Actually Happened:
Bernie Sanders' campaign was facing hostility from the media and the coronavirus pandemic. Sanders responded to a nasty question with a determination to continue fighting.
What Does CNN Want to Convey with This Title:
CNN presented Bernie as unstable, rude, and unpresidential. This narrative aims to discredit the candidate and create a negative public perception.
Did CNN Report on Joe Biden?
No. They did not report on Biden's similar treatment of a female student, using biased language to paint a one-sided picture.
This is not an isolated incident. CNN and other media outlets often target political opponents, such as Trump supporters, Bernie Sanders supporters, and others, to create a narrative that portrays these individuals negatively. Unfortunately, Biden is also not immune to criticism from CNN, but such negative portrayals are seldom balanced with positive reports.
Brianne Corman's Critique
Brianne Corman is a prominent figure in this critique, as she highlights the biased nature of CNN's reporting. Corman argues that CNN is tied to the elites and supports the status quo, making it difficult for candidates like Bernie Sanders to succeed.
Conclusion:
Understanding the art of fake news involves recognizing the use of factually correct statements in a skewed and biased manner. Mainstream media outlets, such as CNN, can effectively manipulate public opinion by selectively reporting on events to create a narrative that serves their agenda. Recognizing and questioning such biased reporting is crucial for maintaining a free and informed society.