By Emma Yang, Contributing Writer

Meta, founded by Mark Zuckerberg, is the parent company of many prominent social media apps, including Instagram and Facebook. However, its widespread influence increases the risk of spreading misinformation. The company originally employed fact-checkers to combat inaccuracies and regulate content but has recently replaced them with Community Notes, a system in which users can write additional context on notes. Once posted, the notes will be displayed below the original post. This shift increases the risk of personal bias and inaccuracy yet heightens digital literacy by being more interactive, ultimately justifying the decision. 

The previous fact-checking program for Meta relied on third-party organizations to evaluate the content veracity across its many platforms. These organizations hired experts who were professionally trained in their fields, ensuring the program had a high level of accuracy and credibility. However, placing the responsibility of processing vast amounts of information on small, centralized groups presented its own set of limitations. A study published by Texas A&M Today indicated that nearly 23% of political image posts on Facebook contained misinformation. With billions of posts shared daily, fact-checkers could not realistically assess all misleading content. 

The new Community Notes system, implemented on January 7, takes a different approach in striving to limit misinformation. It depends on users to verify posts and address misinformation rather than partnerships with trustworthy organizations. Its open-access system broadens the scope of reach and enables greater amounts of contributors to assess more content, enhancing efficiency and coverage rates. 

When asked to comment on Community Notes, David Yang, a Meta employee of six years, responded, “It allows for greater transparency and freedom of speech, but it could be abused by some users. Since Community Notes is open to everyone, contributions might carry personal biases or inaccurate information. Instead of stopping misinformation, it could lead to even more confusion.” 

Yang points out that Community Notes can do the opposite of what is intended if users manipulate the system. Although that possibility seems upsetting, the pros of Community Notes ultimately outweigh the cons. Users accustomed to absorbing information without filters would be encouraged to assume active roles, and having direct influence builds confidence in individuals to speak out. Community Notes prioritizes empowering communities to evaluate information themselves rather than relying on formal supervision, a principle that justifies Mark Zuckerberg’s elimination of fact-checkers for Meta.☐

Mark Zuckerberg Presenting on Meta, Photo from Mashable