The Media
That's Fake News
Myth

Dismissing a source as “fake” or “biased” without showing why is not skepticism — it’s refusing to engage with the evidence.

Argument

Step 1: Demand a Standard for Reliability

Labeling anything you disagree with as “fake” does not refute it.

Ask: what makes a source reliable?

  • Multiple independent attestation
  • Issues a correction when they get it wrong
  • Uses evidence that can be verified
  • No opinions, podcasts or entertainment

"If it's bad, I just say it's fake. If it's good, I say, 'That's the most accurate poll, perhaps, ever.'"
Donald J. Trump, CPAC on July 9, 2021 in Dallas, Texas.

Step 2: Use the Standard

Once a real standard is articulated, apply it equally to all sources — including the ones you trust.

Either show where a source fails this criteria, or confront the evidence on its merits.

Contrary to Trump's assertions, fake news primarily comes from himself and right wing sources

When sound research methodology is applied, right-wing sources are found to contain 5-8x more false or deceptive content. See the myth that Most Information People Share is Accurate for detailed evidence.

Trump told 30,573 distinct lies during his first term. His daily record was 339 new distinct lies in one day. He averages 21 new distinct lies per day. See the myth that Trump Tells the Truth for detailed evidence.

Why it matters

When partisan loyalty replaces critical thinking, propaganda spreads.

When one side of the political aisle is less constrained by facts, it causes imbalanced democratic accountability.

Common Objections
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