An Introduction to Media Literacy: What It Is and Why It's Important
On first thought, you might associate the word “literacy” with the ability to read and write. Media literacy isn’t much different; it concerns the way we interpret the news, whether we believe everything we see and hear or if we make sure to critically analyze information.
“Media” is an all encompassing term that includes traditional news, social media posts, movies... you name it. In an age when anyone can put anything on the internet for all to see, it's important to be critical of the information we consume. With so much on the internet, it can be hard to keep up with the truth. Here are some things to keep in mind when consuming any form of media.
1. Information is often produced with bias.
No matter how reliable the source is considered, humans are always behind media production! People will always have personal biases that are difficult to separate from.
2. There is monetary incentive to produce media.
The most outrageous stories will draw the most attention and make the most money, particularly on social media platforms. While many news sources really do want to provide fair and independent information, this is not the case for all.
3. Anyone can create media!
Thanks to the advancement of technology, we can be instantly connected to almost anyone around the world. This is a good thing in many ways, but that also means that information on the internet oftentimes comes from sources that aren’t reputable. Make sure that the source you are reading is credible!
Some terms you may have heard of that relate to these ideas are “fake news”, “disinformation”, or even “propaganda”. Although it may seem like an individual concern, the lack of media literacy in the general population has led to some serious consequences. In the U.S, “fake news” are a common topic of debate. According to “Trends in the Diffusion of Misinformation on Social Media” research, platforms such as Facebook and Twitter, although incredibly important to global communication and connection, are known to circulate harmful untruths. Due to the media's vital role in politics and elections, countries are known to weaponize information, whether within their own borders or abroad. In international relations, the increasing effect of the media has even forced the expansion of what diplomacy means, expanding the political domain to include not only “air, land, and sea” but now “cyber” (referring to the internet space) as well.
Media literacy not only applies to news we consume, but also to the way we communicate. While it may seem daunting to fact check so much information, together we can discuss the best ways to stay informed and do your part. This post is the first in a new series about media literacy, so stay tuned!
For a more indepth introduction on this topic, check out The Center for Media Literacy’s PDF.
Vocabulary list:
Literacy (n.): the ability to read and write, competency or knowledge of a particular subject
Bias (n.): a tendency or opinion against something or someone, often without reasonable basis
Outrageous (adj.): highly unusual or unconventional
Reputable (adj.): considered to be good, acceptable, and trustworthy
To weaponize (v.): to use as a means to gain a powerful advantage
Daunting (adj.): causing fear or discouragement, intimidating
Maya Sobchuk is a third-year at Macalester College in Minnesota studying international law and international relations theory. She is from Kyiv, but grew up in Los Angeles, California. She has previously worked for the Kyiv Post, is the Web Editor for her college newspaper, and is involved with Ukrainian-American causes in Minnesota. Maya is particularly interested in the post-colonial space, multilateral diplomacy, and disinformation.