Information Ecologies
‘Information Ecologies’ is a research group that emphasizes the social dimensions of knowledge (and ignorance). It develops remedies against the so-called ‘infodemic’, including ubiquitous misinformation and deep fakes, that take seriously how our knowledge is essentially social – we form beliefs in concrete epistemic environments, relying on others’ testimony, expertise and trustworthiness. Maintaining healthy epistemic environments is essential for our ability to “live together as a society” and for informed decision-making and democratic participation.
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Research
Innovative and critical research into information and society
Our idea
In contrast to individualized responses to misinformation such as increasing individual agents’ media-literacy or holding individual journalists and news organizations responsible for ‘fact-checking’, we aim to develop novel strategies for sharing epistemic responsibility for healthy informational environments. This allows us to combat the spread of misinformation and disinformation strategies by focusing in on the social context within which those thrive. Successfully combating misinformation and disinformation will require forward-looking, pro-active epistemic agency and investment at the societal level.
AI and democracy
Does AI help or hinder democratic processes?
We explore the impact and implications of artificial intelligence on democratic processes and institutions
Trust and information
Analysing the dynamics of trust in information ecosystems
Misinformation thrives where trust is low. How can we build information systems that also build communities of trust?
Data and journalism
Investigating the role of big data on journalism
The ability to collect more data on audiences, and the changing economics of journalistic production, present fundamental challenges to the field of journalism
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The team
Associate Professor
Anne Schwenkenbecher
World leading expert in social epistemology, radicalisation, collective responsibility and philosophy.
Doctor
Nardine Alnemr
Ground breaking researcher into AI and democracy, and innovative deliberative mechanisms to improve democratic processes
Associate Professor
Tauel Harper
Expert in misinformation and disinformation, as well as democratic theory, media effects and public communication.
Doctor
Howard Lee
Researcher with experience as a working journalist, and extensive engagement in politics and the media, freedom of information and governance of journalism.
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Contact us
Want to collaborate?
Get in touch!
We are always on the lookout to work with interested research students (MA/PhD) and Postdoctoral Researchers. We have a range of potential scholarships and funding sources for the right candidates.
We also regularly host research sharing events and would love to hear from any potential contributors or collaborators
