University of Twente Student Theses
Olaf Scholz Deepfake: How a Deepfake impacts Public Trust
Eynern, Christopher von (2024) Olaf Scholz Deepfake: How a Deepfake impacts Public Trust.
|
PDF
3MB |
| Abstract: | In the digital age, deepfake technology significantly threatens the integrity of information and democratic discourse. This thesis examines the socio-political effects of deepfakes, focusing on cognitive and emotional responses and the broader implications for public trust in media and political institutions. Through the "AfD-Ban" deepfake video, this thesis provides a case-specific understanding of deepfakes' influence on public perceptions and trust. Utilizing an interpretive approach, experimental semi-structured interviews capture initial perceptions of the video's authenticity, responses upon learning the video's deepfake nature, and reflections on broader implications for public trust. Findings reveal that initial perceptions were influenced by digital literacy, pre-existing biases, and public trust itself. Higher digital literacy and critical thinking facilitated recognition of the deepfake, while lower digital literacy or stronger political biases increased the vulnerability to deception. Emotional responses ranged from indifference to fear. Deepfakes significantly impact public trust and democratic discourse, with concerns about the erosion of trust in media and political institutions, the amplification of misinformation, and the manipulation of public opinion. Multiple solutions are imaginable: enhancing media literacy, implementing technological safeguards, developing regulatory measures for transparency and accountability, promoting ethical standards in digital media, and fostering inclusive public discourse to counteract echo chambers and polarization. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Bachelor) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 89 political science |
| Programme: | Management Society and Technology BSc (56654) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/101675 |
| Export this item as: | BibTeX EndNote HTML Citation Reference Manager |
Show download statistics for this publication
Show download statistics for this publicationRepository Staff Only: item control page