How The Social Media Spread Misinformation And Increase Social Polarization

Political polarization has become common place in the US and it much of the world.  This article describes what happened to a Washington Post columnist when he was trolled in the social media.  It is not pretty.  The social media have increased the potential for misinformation to be widely dispersed within polarized groups.  They become more polarized as a result.  The social media are also used to radicalize individuals who may become violent.  We have all benefited from the use of the social media which enable us to stay in contact with our friends and to share information.  We have few means by which we can limit the misuse of the social media by angry and dangerous groups.