Jordan Keagy

Abstract:

The proliferation of misinformation in American society has increasingly led to heightened levels of political discourse and established a broader discussion in which media narratives strengthen the effects of misinformation and distrust in society (Levendusky 2013, 612) (Jenke 2022, 1). While there is substantial literature examining the effects of political trust and education, there is little research examining how effective polarization has led to increased belief of misinformation among individuals with heightened levels of education. The purpose of this literature review aims to explore the relationship between those with higher education and the shift in heightened belief of misinformation. Through this examination we will first explore the overall decline in political trust in America. Secondly, we will examine the relationship between partisan media and misinformation through the consolidation of the 1996 Telecommunications Act. Lastly, we will distinguish and examine the relationship between polarization and misinformation by education. The decline of political trust in America has led to a polarized environment where partisan media has caused individuals with higher levels of education to believe misinformation at heightened levels.