HEC Research Papers Series,
HEC Paris

Abstract: Fake news is a symptom of deeper structural problems in our societies and media environments. To counter it, policymakers need to take into account the underlying, self-reinforcing mechanisms that make this old phenomenon so pervasive today. Only by taking a step back can we examine the vulnerabilities these fake news narratives exploit. This article provides a first taxonomy of anti-fake news approaches. It argues that proposed anti-fake news laws focus on the trees rather than the forest. As such, they will not only remain irrelevant but also aggravate the root causes fueling the fake news phenomenon.

Keywords: Fake new; disinformation; misinformation; media; behavioural; better regulation; digital agenda

JEL-codes: K30; K32

9 pages, First version: March 18, 2018. Revised: April 20, 2018.

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