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Internet News, Fact-Checking, & Critical Thinking

Journalism and library resources

Recommended Books

UnSpun: Finding Facts in a World of Disinformation

Written by FactCheck.org founders, it reveals the warning signs of spin, hype, and bogus news; common tricks used to deceive us; how to find trustworthy and objective sources of information.

Blur: How to Know What's True in the Age of Information Overload

"Reveals the craft that has been used in newsrooms by the very best journalists for getting at the truth."  Discusses verification, sources, evidence, and ways of knowing.

The Filter Bubble: What the Internet is Hiding From You

"The hidden rise of personalization on the Internet is controlling--and limiting--the information we consume. In 2009, Google began customizing its search results. Instead of giving you the most broadly popular result, Google now tries to predict what you are most likely to click on..." Also see his TED talk "Beware Online Filter Bubbles" online.

A Field Guide to Lies: critical thinking in the information age

"Shows how to recognize misleading announcements, statistics, graphs, and written reports...How do we distinguish misinformation, pseudo-facts, distortions, and outright lies from reliable information?" Levitin discusses statistical information and faulty arguments.

Recommended Audiobooks

No spare time for extra readings?  Listen to an audiobook while you exercise (or take a long trip by car or bus).

Recommended TED talks