The spread of rumors on social media networks and the individual's perception of freedom of expression

Abstract

Due to the widespread use of social media, users are more able to share their thoughts and opinions, but individual differences in perception of freedom of speech may lead to frequent online rumors. This study adopts a questionnaire survey method to explore the relationship between the spread of rumors on social media networks and individuals' perceptions of freedom of speech. Based on the theories of freedom of speech and rumor dissemination, although no significant correlation was found between the degree of rumor dissemination and individual freedom of speech, it is clear that individual differences in their perception of freedom of speech can affect their behavior on social media. The results show that people's different understandings of freedom of speech can affect their reactions to online rumors. In the future, efforts should be made to strengthen the cultivation of users' ability to discern information, educate young people, and increase the scrutiny of social media platforms to create a healthy environment.