Fake News and its Sociological Impact on Public Opinion
Lalta Prasad Rai
Researcher
WitWaves Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Volume 2, Issue 6, 2025, ce45df50-d337-49bb-ad32-8f560de479d1
Published: 09 June 2025
Abstract
In the digital age, the rapid spread of fake news has emerged as a critical challenge with far-reaching sociological implications. This research paper explores the impact of fake news on public opinion, particularly how misinformation influences individual perceptions, collective behavior, and societal trust. With the advent of social media platforms, the dissemination of unverified and emotionally charged content has increased, often leading to social polarization, reinforcement of stereotypes, and erosion of democratic discourse. This study examines the mechanisms through which fake news alters public opinion, the sociological factors that make individuals susceptible to misinformation, and the role of digital literacy in combating this phenomenon. Drawing on both qualitative and quantitative data, including case studies from India and other democracies, the research aims to highlight the urgent need for media accountability, public awareness, and institutional checks. Ultimately, this paper seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of how fake news shapes societal beliefs and behaviors, and to propose recommendations for mitigating its negative effects on the social fabric.
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