Fake news, technology and ethics: Can AI and blockchains restore integrity?

Abstract

This teaching case explores the advantages and disadvantages of battling fake news with advanced information technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchains. Students will explore the purposes of, proliferation of, susceptibility to, and consequences of fake news and assess the efficacy of new interventions that rely on emerging technologies. Key questions students will explore: How can we properly balance freedom of speech and the prevention of fake news? What ethical guidelines should be applied to the use of AI and blockchains to ensure they do more good than harm? Will technology be enough to stop fake news?