Abstract
Why do people spread information that isn't true on social media? Especially when they know that's what they're doing?
Money is one reason. That's the motivation inside troll farms, which put out disinformation for whoever will pay them.
"Wellness influencers" who post anti-vax or anti-lockdown messages, get engagement and engagement leads to money.
But there are other motivations too.
Attention, starting a joke, trolling — all are enough to get people to say something outrageous and untrue.
And if it's a good story, we're far too willing to spread it ourselves.
Money is one reason. That's the motivation inside troll farms, which put out disinformation for whoever will pay them.
"Wellness influencers" who post anti-vax or anti-lockdown messages, get engagement and engagement leads to money.
But there are other motivations too.
Attention, starting a joke, trolling — all are enough to get people to say something outrageous and untrue.
And if it's a good story, we're far too willing to spread it ourselves.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Australian Broadcasting Corporation |
| Publication status | Published - 27 Aug 2021 |