Misinformation, Disinformation and "Fake News"
Part of the UB Law in Focus Discussion Series
Misinformation, disinformation and so-called "fake news" have always been part of our media landscape, going back to the scurrilous political campaigns of the 18th century, the great newspaper hoaxes of the 19th century, and Nazi and Soviet propaganda of the 20th century.
What has made these phenomena so troubling in the 21st century is the amplification effect of the internet, especially social media. This discussion will address the issue of misinformation, disinformation and "fake news," including their definition, sources and the harms they create, as well as what, if anything, can be done about them consistent with the First Amendment.
On Sept. 16, 2020, Eric Easton , media law expert and professor emeritus at UBalt School of Law; Jasmine McNealy , assistant professor of telecommunication at the University of Florida; and UBalt Law alumna Sandy Banisky, J.D. '93 , a journalism professor at the University of Maryland College Park and former editor at the Baltimore Sun, discussed the topic.
DeWayne Wickham , distinguished professor and founding dean of the School of Global Journalism & Communication at Morgan State University, moderated the discussion.
Panelists
Eric Easton
Professor of Law Emeritus, UBalt School of Law
Jasmine McNealy
Assistant Professor, University of Florida
Sandy Banisky, J.D. '93
Professor, University of Maryland College Park
DeWayne Wickham
Dean, Morgan State University School of Global Journalism & Communication
Future Events
To recommend a topic idea or to express your interest to serve as a panelist for a future event, contact Jason Keller at jkeller@ubalt.edu.