How the Bible can Help Protect People from Misinformation [JW.ORG provides practical articles and tips as Global Media and Information Literacy Week ends]
Abuja – November 1, 2023—At the click of a button, people around the world every day are sharing misleading news reports, deep fakes, false reports, and conspiracy theories featured on internet websites and social media feeds.
The World Health Organization reports that false information is 70% more likely to be shared on some social media platforms than accurate news. With Global Media and Information Literacy Week on Oct. 24-31, many are finding that jw.org draws attention to practical tips that help advance media literacy.
[“There are several articles on jw.org that specifically address misinformation and provide practical guidance for people who are trying to navigate the information deluge many are experiencing,” said Folarin Odebode regional spokesman for Jehovah’s Witnesses. “The Bible provides solid principles about trust, discernment, and
the value of truth that are extremely relevant today.”]
The article “Protect Yourself From Misinformation” draws attention to Bible principles that can help:
·Do not believe everything you see or hear.
o “The naive person believes every word, but the shrewd one ponders each
step.”—Proverbs 14:15.
·Evaluate the source and content.
o “Make sure of all things.”—1 Thessalonians 5:21.
·Be guided by facts, not personal preferences.
o “Whoever trusts in his own heart is stupid.”—Proverbs 28:26.
·Stop the spread of misinformation.
o “You must not spread a report that is not true.”—Exodus 23:1.
Read Also:
The article “Can You Trust the News Media?” states that there is a need for balance when consuming news and shares some tips for testing out the information we read, watch, or listen to. The article recommends examining the following:
·Provider: Does the report come from a credible, authoritative person or organization?
Does the program or publication have a reputation for seriousness or for sensationalism? Who provides the funds for the news source?
·Sources: Is there evidence of thorough research? Is the story based on just one source?
Are the sources reliable, fair, and objective? Are they balanced, or have they been selected to convey only one point of view?
·Purpose: Ask yourself: ‘Is the news item primarily to inform or entertain? Is it trying to
sell or support something?’
·Tone: When the tone of a news item is angry, spiteful, or highly critical, it suggests that
the information is an attack and not necessarily a well-reasoned argument.
·Consistency: Are the facts consistent with those in other articles or reports? If stories
contradict one another; be careful!
·Timeliness: Is the information recent enough to be acceptable? Information thought to
be correct 20 years ago may be discounted today. On the other hand, if the news item is a breaking story, it may be incomplete or lack comprehensive details.
JW.ORG also features a whiteboard animation video geared toward young people. The video creates awareness about deep fakes, conspiracy theories, misinformation, and false information. “Misinformation isn’t just inaccurate. It can also be dangerous. It can cause people to make bad decisions or ignore safety warnings,” the video states.
The video encourages children and teens to consult people they trust and stay safe when they consume information.
“We are very grateful for the resources on jw.org that we can consider as a family,” said Chimezie. “There is so much dangerous and false information out there, and we want to make sure our children know how to protect themselves from misinformation. We want them
to be able to select appropriate and accurate information from the many that they are exposed to every day.”
Related content on jw.org includes articles about being cautious when sharing information, how to help children deal with disturbing news reports, and teaching children smartphone sense.
For more information, visit jw.org.
