Obama says social media falsehoods spur scepticism on politics

While Obama acknowledged that some of the most odious content, such as racism, white supremacy and conspiracy theories, existed ‘long before the first tweet was sent’, he argued that ‘solving the disinformation problem’ on social media networks could help build trust and solidarity among citizens. — AP

Former US President Barack Obama warned that the way Americans communicate on social media networks has weakened democracy.

Obama, who owns the podcasting and film company Higher Ground, warned that “citizens no longer know what to believe” thanks to false information spreading online. This is leading to political scepticism among citizens, he added.