Fake News and Informing Science [Abstract]

Abstract

Aim/Purpose: The goal of the paper is to consider how the informing phenomenon referred to as “fake news” can be characterized using existing informing science conceptual schemes. Background: A brief review of articles relating to fake news is presented after which potential implications under a variety of informing science frameworks are considered. Methodology: Conceptual synthesis. Contribution: Informing science appears to offer a unique perspective on the fake news phenomenon. Findings: Many aspects of fake news seem consistent with complexity-based conceptual schemes in which its potential for establishing or reinforcing group membership outweighs its factual informing value. Recommendations for Practitioners: The analysis suggests that conventional approaches to combatting fake news, such as reliance on fact checking, may prove largely ineffective because they fail to address the underlying motivation for absorbing and creating fake news. Recommendations for Researchers: Acceptance of fake news may be framed as an element of a broader information seeking strategy independent of the message it conveys. Impact on Society: The societal impact of believing of fake news may prove to be less important than its long term impact on the perceived reliability of informing channels. Future Research: A broad array of research questions warranting further investigation are posed.