Fake news, much like corrupt elected officials, don’t exist in a vacuum; each relies upon the support of hundreds, thousands or millions of people who lack the intellectual discernment to figure out when something is true or not.

Yes, it is a threat to our democracy that so much false information has been spread about over the past few years online, but such “news” would never have gotten the traction it did without so many online collaborators who literally lacked the wits to check out if what they were reading had any basis in reality.

Advertisement

This is why God made Google – among other online search engines – so we wouldn’t look stupid when we post insane pieces about Sarah Palin, Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama or a whole host of other persons and subjects.

But because what we read so often confirms our worst suspicions, the rational part of our brain shuts down, and we eagerly spread the word to others.

Advertisement

Tragically, liberals can be just as gullible as conservatives when it comes to spreading this sort of crap.

Think not? Look at all the Sarah Palin quotes that turn out to be entirely bogus, yet folks happily share them with others.

Advertisement

Much of the fake news business might well come to a screeching halt if only more people thought to check out a search engine once in a while.

Yeah, I know. Ain’t gonna happen in my lifetime. Still, hope springs eternal . . .

Advertisement

******

Today’s Soundtrack

Advertisement

Oh, baby, it’s the good life today, as I write (and sing) along to “Tony Bennett’s Greatest Hits of the ‘60s.”

*****

Advertisement

Quote of the Day

No man, for any considerable time, can wear one face to himself and another to the multitude without finally getting bewildered as to which may be the true. – Nathaniel Hawthorne

rsdrake@cox.net

Invest in the future of great journalism in Arkansas

Join the ranks of the 63,000 Facebook followers, 58,000 Twitter followers, 35,000 Arkansas blog followers, and 70,000 daily email blasts who know that the Arkansas Times is the go-to source for tough, determined, and feisty journalism that holds the powerful accountable. For 50 years, our progressive, alternative newspaper in Little Rock has been on the front lines of the fight for truth, and with your support, we can do even more. By subscribing or donating to the Arkansas Times, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be helping us hire more writers and expand our coverage. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make a difference with your subscription or donation to the Arkansas Times today.

Previous article Democrats: Where is Tom Cotton on Roy Moore? Next article Voters favor on-premise alcohol sales in Jacksonville, Sherwood