ПОНЯТТЯ «ФЕЙКОВІ НОВИНИ» В АНГЛОМОВНОМУ МЕДІАПРОСТОРІ

Abstract

This research article delves into the theoretical foundations necessary for a comprehensive study of fake news in the English-language media space. The author begins with a historical overview of the definition of fake news, tracing its evolution and different interpretations over time. This historical perspective provides a valuable context for understanding the current challenges posed by fake news and emphasizes the need for a nuanced theoretical framework to address the complex issues surrounding the phenomenon. The article goes on to examine fake news stories in politics, focusing on well-known examples such as the 2016 US election, the 2019 Australian election and Brexit. By examining these examples, the author illustrates the profound impact of fake news on political processes, including voter behaviour, election results, and public trust in democratic institutions. This analysis emphasizes the urgency of studying fake news in a political context and its implications for democratic governance. In addition to the political implications, the article also delves into the legal aspect of defining fake news. Despite the growing concern around fake news, legislatures have not yet provided a clear definition of the phenomenon. Instead, they have proposed characteristics that reflect its deceptive nature and harmful effects. By analyzing the legal landscape surrounding fake news, the author sheds light on the challenges of regulating disinformation in the digital age and the limitations of the legal framework in combating its spread. The author also analyzes the feasibility of the concept of «fake news» and the views of both legislative bodies of English-speaking countries and cultural figures and researchers in these countries. The author also analyzes the correlation and interrelation of fake news with such concepts as «disinformation», «misinformation», etc.