Vatican City: Pope Francis says 'fake news started in the Garden of Eden'

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“They must remember that the heart of information is not the speed with which it is reported or its audience impact.”

Times of Ahmad | News Watch | Int'l Desk
Source/Credit: Big Think
By Robby Berman | January 28, 2018

 “A weighty responsibility rests on the shoulders of those whose job is to provide information . . ."

In his message for 2018 World Communications Day, Pope Francis rallied to the defense of journalism—if not the news media—comparing fake news to the snake in the Garden of Eden for its misleading, destructive power. This is a valuable, clear-eyed message for anyone, regardless of belief system. And to be clear, the pope’s not talking about fake news as defined in White House press briefings or presidential tweets. He has something very different—nearly the opposite—in mind:

“In general, it refers to the spreading of disinformation online or in the traditional media. It has to do with false information based on non-existent or distorted data meant to deceive and manipulate the reader. Spreading fake news can serve to advance specific goals, influence political decisions, and serve economic interests.”

The Pontiff’s annual message is in honor of the feast of St. Francis de ‎Sales, patron saint of journalists, in whom the Pope sees our best defense. “A weighty responsibility rests on the shoulders of those whose job is to provide information, namely, journalists, the protectors of news.  In today’s world, theirs is, in every sense, not just a job; it is a mission.” He also recognizes the pressures that may cause news outlets to fail, reminding journalists that “they must remember that the heart of information is not the speed with which it is reported or its audience impact.”

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