A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What is a potential outcome of the 'fake news' phenomenon in postmodern society?

1. Increased trust in media organizations

2. Loss of faith in institutional sources of information

3. Strengthening of community information networks

4. Greater reliance on expert opinions

The correct answer is: Loss of faith in institutional sources of information

The phenomenon of 'fake news' in postmodern society can lead to a significant loss of faith in institutional sources of information. This reflects a broader trend of skepticism towards traditional media organizations, which are often seen as unreliable due to the prevalence of misinformation. As consumers encounter conflicting information from various sources, they may begin to question the credibility of news outlets, especially when major stories are later debunked or shown to be misleading. This erosion of trust can result in individuals seeking alternative sources of information that may not be grounded in the same journalistic standards, further complicating their understanding of truth and accuracy in media narratives. In contrast, the other options don't capture the essence of how 'fake news' impacts societal perceptions of information. Increased trust in media organizations would be counterintuitive as the rise of misinformation is tied to declining faith in those very institutions. Similarly, while community information networks may become more prominent as people seek trustworthy sources, this does not directly address the broader implications of lost trust in established information authorities. Lastly, greater reliance on expert opinions might occur in some cases, but it also may diminish as experts' credibility is questioned alongside other sources.