Meta's Shift from Fact-Checking to Community Notes: A Democratic Dilemma

Meta has replaced its fact-checking team with a community-based model, relying on users to correct misinformation. This move, echoing Elon Musk's 'citizen journalism', faces criticism for possibly undermining civic values. Research indicates social media users might not prioritize accurate information as traditional media consumers do.

In a bold move, Meta's CEO Mark Zuckerberg has disbanded the company's fact-checking team, opting instead for a user-driven correction model. This shift comes in the aftermath of Donald Trump's presidential victory and raises critical questions about the impact on democratic processes.

The new model, similar to that of X, founded by Elon Musk, is being marketed as 'citizen journalism', where users themselves serve as fact-checkers. However, critics argue this approach may suppress factual integrity in favor of sensationalism and virality.

Recent research highlights concerns that social media users do not emphasize civic values to the extent that traditional media consumers do, further compounding worries about the platform's role in informing public discourse and fostering genuine engagement.

(With inputs from agencies.)