Archive · 31 Jul 2025
Poetry's Power Against Misinformation and Division
The world is becoming more divided and misinformed, with fake news being a big problem.
This is because we mostly see things that agree with our own views.
Poetry helps by letting us imagine what it's like to be someone else.
Poems can show us important truths about the world and make us care about issues.
This is especially important now, because it helps us understand other people's experiences and fight against prejudice.
Misinformation and disinformation are identified as severe global risks, potentially leading to social unrest.
Social media algorithms contribute to echo chambers, limiting exposure to diverse perspectives.
Poetry encourages empathy by prompting readers to imagine experiences beyond their own.
Poetry reveals truths and challenges societal issues, as seen in poems by Audre Lorde and katherena vermette.
Poetry can connect to important political issues and grassroots initiatives, such as Drag the Red.
- Who
- Alex Hubbard, an associate lecturer, discusses how poetry can help counter misinformation and division.
- What
- An analysis on how poetry can combat misinformation and polarization.
- When
- The report was written in January 2024.
- Where
- The examples used include the US and Canada.
- Why
- To address the rise of misinformation and polarization in the world.
Limited Perspective
Expanded Perspective
Perspective
Limited Perspective
Echo chambers limit our world view.
Expanded Perspective
Poetry can expand our perspective.
- Author
- Alex Hubbard
- Institution
- Aberystwyth University
- Main topic
- Poetry's role against misinformation
- Key poems
- Afterimages, Estate Fragments, North End Love Songs
- Social issue addressed
- Racism, social injustice, apathy