Misinformation in the digital age: an American infodemic

This chapter introduces readers to a geographical anchoring of misinformation. It defines misinformation and provides a short historical overview of misinformation historically. Foundational geographical concepts are described, namely scale and relationality, that help place the conceptual framing of the book. While misinformation is not new, information gatekeeping norms have developed over time regarding what standards and practices of good reporting and editorialization. We highlight briefly the erosion of editorial norms with increased commodification of social media and digital interactions. The chapter ends with an overview of the structure of the book.