Exploring How Misinformation Impacts Criminology

• In Event: Poster Session 1

Abstract

Navigating misinformation in a climate of societal “post-truth” is a major challenge for both criminology researchers and practitioners. This literature review aims to explore the primary motivations for public misinformation and practical means to mitigate the impact of misinformation spread via modern social media channels. It is hypothesized that mass media, protected police department data, and the inaccessibility of credible criminal legal research findings collectively contribute to the spread of public information. The extent to which these factors effect the advances in the field of criminology is not fully understood. Through an in-depth dissection of current research on our “post-truth society” moral panics, political influence, and methods of criminal legal knowledge dissemination, insight can be gained into this critical topic. By uncovering the moral and political catalysts that influence public opinion of criminal legal practitioner’s, this study opens the discussion on responsible dissemination of criminology and criminal legal research findings and data, along with practical approaches towards public education relevant to criminal legal policy.

Author

• Jada Leanne Bluford, East Carolina University