FIB Undip – The flow of information in the digital era moves very fast. In a matter of seconds, a news can spread widely without having time to verify the truth. In the midst of these conditions, hoaxes become one of the serious challenges that need to be dealt with wisely. Answering this problem, the Faculty of Humanites of Diponegoro University presents an information literacy discussion with Heriyanto, S.Sos., M.IM., Ph.D., Head of the Library and Information Science Study Program of FIB Undip, through the Suara Budaya podcast.
In a warm and reflective conversation, Heriyanto invites listeners to understand hoaxes more deeply, not only from the technical side, but also from the point of view of information science and human psychology.
Understanding Hoaxes from the Perspective of Information Science
Heriyanto explained that hoaxes are not just false news, but false information that is deliberately made to mislead or lead public opinion in a certain direction. In library and information science, hoax cannot even be called information.
“The information must be valid and useful. If it is a hoax, because of its deceptive nature, then it is included in the category of fake news, not information,” he explained.
Etymologically, the term hoax is believed to come from the old English word hocus, which refers to something fake or imitation. Since its inception, hoaxes are indeed designed to deceive, not to give knowledge.
Hoax and How It Works in Affecting Humans
Hoaxes do not appear aimlessly. According to Heriyanto, every hoax has a motive, ranging from economic, political interests, to just seeking attention. To make it look convincing, hoaxes are often packed with attractive visuals, video clips, sounds, and even certain figures.
This is where the psychological aspect plays a big role. Many people actually have enough literacy skills, but are reluctant or lazy to do verification. Emotional impulses often make someone immediately believe and spread information without thinking twice.
“Especially now information is often taken piecemeal. The context was removed, but the conclusion was taken,” he said.
Verification and Critical Attitude Become the Main Key
In warding off hoaxes, Heriyanto emphasized the importance of verification. Simple steps such as checking news sources can be the first bastion to prevent the spread of false information.
Official sources, trusted institutions, and credible media are important references. On the other hand, information from anonymous accounts or unclear origin should be suspected. In addition, a critical attitude needs to continue to be honed, especially towards information that is presented partially and provocatively.
No less important, he reminded the public to be more responsible for the share button. Every information shared has consequences, both socially and legally.
When There is Too Much Information: Information Overload Phenomenon
The digital era also brings other challenges in the form of information overload. This condition occurs when someone receives too much information until they experience mental fatigue and difficulty making decisions.
Heriyanto said that this fatigue is often not realized, but the impact is real. Decreased focus, emotions are easily triggered, and critical thinking ability weakens. Therefore, screen time management or screen time is an important need to keep information consumption healthy.
Message for the Young Generation: Back to Making Friends with Text
Closing the discussion, Heriyanto gave a special message for the younger generation, including Gen Z and Gen Alfa. Even though it is known to be technologically proficient, literacy ability must still be balanced with information ethics and moral foundation.
He invited the younger generation to not only rely on instant and visual content. Reading the text in depth is considered important to understand the structure of the problem and the complete context.
“To understand a complex problem, we need to read, not just see the conclusion,” he said.
With critical, systematic, and wise thinking, the young generation is expected to be able to filter information more healthily, not easily influenced by hoaxes, and still stand on reality in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the digital world.
See more on YouTube Faculty of Humanities Undip: https://youtu.be/njtUUYmL3ig