Liviu Poenaru, Dec. 9, 2024

 

 

In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) noted "the effects of the infodemic and online misinformation on health."

 

"Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram are essential to the rapid and large-scale spread of information," explains the systematic analysis. The repercussions of misinformation on social media include negative effects such as "an intensification of the misinterpretation of scientific knowledge, polarization of opinion, escalation of fear and panic, or less frequent access to health services."

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Infodemic is a relatively new term that combines the words "information" and "epidemic" to describe the overabundance of information, often of dubious or false quality, that spreads rapidly and uncontrollably, particularly online and via social networks. This phenomenon can be especially problematic in times of crisis, such as during pandemics, natural disasters, or political crises, where accurate and reliable information is crucial.

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Unfortunately, the WHO focuses solely on the effects of the infodemic on health and does not consider the uncontrollable effects of the invasion of images (the scopic nature of the infodemic) on health. We are no longer in the period of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the crisis continues by all means. The amount of information available is so massive that people may struggle to discern what is relevant or reliable. The compulsive search for information is linked to anxiety, but also to the intentionally addictive nature of digital logic. This can lead to confusion, chaos, and decision paralysis.

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For a comprehensive response to the infodemic, it is essential to recognize and address the impact of images in an equivalent manner to that of texts. This requires interdisciplinary approaches, combining technology, psychology, sociology, and communication sciences to develop tools and strategies capable of effectively managing this visual dimension.

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The infodemic includes the dissemination of false information (disinformation) intentionally or bad information (misinformation) unintentionally. This can include rumors, conspiracy theories, and unverified information. It can generate anxiety, fear, and confusion among the public. It can also lead to increased social polarization, mistrust of authorities and experts, and potentially dangerous behaviors.

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Epidemiological curves in public health, particularly mental health, seem to confirm the existence of a perpetual crisis fueled by media, information, and images.

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