Exploring the Linkages between False Narratives and Political Events

• In Event: Disinformation, Extreme Rhetoric and Online Toxicity in Politics

Abstract

Contentious sociopolitical events can often trigger opportunities for disinformation campaigns in the digital realm, especially during election years. Focusing on the American context and on national events that made headline news in the US election year 2024, this project explores the following two questions: What type of national socioeconomic and political events are likely to initiate online campaigns of disinformation, and false narratives? What are the common themes and narratives employed within these campaigns? In answering these questions, our study aims to unravel the underlying mechanisms that fuel the dissemination of false information. Understanding the drivers and sources of disinformation campaigns is of critical importance in an era where digital misinformation can shape public opinion, influencing the political beliefs and behaviors of various state and non-state actors. Our methodology includes the use of original data on disinformation-triggering political events in 2024 in the United States, and computational methods to identify the inception and dissemination of disinformation campaigns.

Authors

• Amira Jadoon, Clemson University

• Ayse D Lokmanoglu, Boston University

• Tess Hemmila

• Arie Perliger, University of Massachusetts Lowell