Democracy in the Digital Age: Investigating Fake News, Political Polarization, and Media’s Role in Taiwan and South Africa
Article / Journal
Author(s) / editor(s):
Dennis Lu Chung Weng and Kira Alberts
Year: 2026
Language(s): English
Abstract:
Comparative exploratory study of Taiwan and South Africa using TIGCR and Afrobarometer data that examines perceived exposure to misinformation/disinformation and its effects on democratic processes. Findings show high perceived exposure in both contexts, links between platform reliance and awareness of false information, and associations between misinformation dissemination, increased polarization, and weakened media roles in democracy. The paper discusses implications for democratic health and proposes directions for further research to mitigate misinformation impacts across diverse democratic settings.
https://doi.org/10.1177/00219096251380770
Post created by: Virginia Signorini