The Beginnings of Verified: Intro to Ch. 3

Introduction

In the Introduction of Verified we get a glimpse of the importance of being cautious when encountering shocking/surprising news. In an age of misinformation, it’s easy to spiral based on false articles. Before accepting anything as true, we need to pause and verify the facts to avoid falling into misinformation traps.

Chapter 1: Get Quick Context 

This chapter emphasizes the importance of context when navigating the internet. It introduces three key areas to consider:

• Source: What’s the reputation of the source? Are they trustworthy?
• Claim: What is the claim being made, and has it been validated by others?
• You: Are you an expert, or do you have a strong interest in the topic?

To make these assessments, the chapter introduces the SIFT method:

• Stop: Don’t rush to judgment.
• Investigate the Source: Check the source’s credibility.
• Find the Coverage: See how others have covered the claim.
• Trace the Claim: Look back to the original context of the claim or quote.

This method is essential for building a habit of critical thinking before sharing or believing something online.

Chapter 2: Cheap Signals 

Not everything online is trustworthy, even if it looks official. This chapter discusses the importance of scrutinizing URLs and recognizing the difference between domains like .org and .com. While dot-orgs suggest nonprofit status, they aren’t automatically trustworthy, and dot-coms can be just as credible, depending on the source.

It also introduces the concept of signals defining it as “any observable element that we use to make judgments about something we can’t see.” For instance, websites might look polished and professional but could still present fake or biased information. It’s crucial to look beyond surface-level impressions and dig deeper to verify credibility.

Chapter 3: Google – The Bestie You Thought You Knew 

Google has become a go-to resource, but just because it’s the first result doesn’t mean it’s accurate. Search results can be influenced by algorithms that reflect human biases, and images can be manipulated with Photoshop. The chapter reminds us to always use SIFT and verify sources. Don’t just trust what pops up on Google.

Google also personalizes your results based on your previous searches, meaning it often provides what it thinks you want to see, not necessarily the truth. This “pandering” can create an echo chamber, reinforcing your beliefs rather than presenting objective facts. Any little change in your search could change what it gives you in response. You’re providing it with ‘tells’ that could make it rethink anything since “Google’s algorithms reflect some very real human prejudices and biases.” You want to pander to Google using keywords so it can ‘see’ and find what you’re looking for.

Final Thoughts 

These chapters emphasize how easy it is to fall into the trap of believing misinformation in the digital world. By using methods like SIFT and being aware of how signals and algorithms influence what we see, we can become better at navigating and verifying information online. In a time when everyone can be a content creator, it’s essential to be critical of sources and thoughtful about what we accept as truth.