Fact Check: fact-checking is 100 years old

Fact Check: "Fact-checking is 100 years old"

What We Know

The claim that "fact-checking is 100 years old" is misleading. The term "fact-checker" first appeared in an advertisement for TIME magazine in 1938, indicating that the formal role of fact-checking in journalism began around that time (source). The practice of verifying facts in journalism has roots that extend back further, with sensationalist newspapers in the 1850s creating a demand for more accurate reporting (source). However, the structured role of a fact-checker, as we understand it today, is less than a century old.

Analysis

The assertion that fact-checking is 100 years old overlooks the nuances of its historical development. While the need for accurate reporting has existed for centuries, the specific role of a fact-checker as a dedicated position within news organizations emerged in the late 1930s (source). This was a time when journalism began to professionalize, and the responsibilities of fact-checkers became more defined, particularly at prominent publications like TIME.

Moreover, the evolution of fact-checking has continued beyond its inception. The role has expanded significantly, especially with the rise of digital media and the proliferation of misinformation, leading to the establishment of dedicated fact-checking organizations (source). This evolution indicates that while the concept of fact-checking has been around for a long time, the formalized practice we recognize today is relatively recent.

The reliability of sources discussing the history of fact-checking varies. Academic sources, such as those from Boston University, provide a credible historical context (source). In contrast, more general articles may lack the depth required for a thorough understanding of the timeline and significance of fact-checking in journalism.

Conclusion

The claim that "fact-checking is 100 years old" is False. While the practice of verifying facts has a long history, the specific role of a fact-checker began in the late 1930s, making it less than a century old. This distinction is crucial in understanding the evolution of journalism and the increasing importance of fact-checking in combating misinformation.

Sources

1. History of Fact-Checking - BU Libraries - Boston University
2. History Doesn't Repeat Itself, but It Often Rhymes
3. How COVID drove the evolution of fact-checking
4. Fact-checking
5. The (almost) complete history of 'fake news'
6. List of fact-checking websites
7. On the nature of truth, and the history of fact checking