Vocabulary Quiz: Media and Ethics Terms

Definitions of Terms

• Propaganda: Information, especially biased or misleading, used to promote a particular political cause or point of view; often disseminated by governments or organizations.

• Media Literacy: The ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and create media in various forms; essential for understanding the influence of media on beliefs and behaviors.

• Illegitimate: Not authorized by law or rules; lacking in legitimacy or validity; often refers to actions seen as improper or dishonorable.

• Avalanche of News: An overwhelming amount of news information presented, which can create confusion or fatigue among the audience; refers to the constant influx in the digital age.

• A Hoax: A deceptive act or trick that is intended to mislead or defraud; often involves a fabricated story or situation.

• To Peddle a Conspiracy Theory: To promote or spread unfounded, secretive theories that suggest hidden agendas, usually against public knowledge; often involves sensationalism.

• Defamation: The action of damaging the good reputation of someone through false statements; can be civil or criminal depending on jurisdiction.

• Plausible: Something that is reasonable or probable; a claim that appears credible or believable based on available evidence.

• To Dupe: To deceive or trick someone into believing something that is not true; often involves manipulation or clever tactics.

• Corrupt: Willingly involved in dishonest or fraudulent behavior, often for personal gain; can describe individuals or systems that are morally impure.

• Malevolent: Having or showing a wish to do evil to others; a personality trait associated with viciousness and harmful intentions.

• Hypocrisy: The practice of claiming to have moral standards or beliefs to which one's own behavior does not conform; often leads to a contradiction between stated beliefs and actions.

• To Renege on Something: To go back on a promise, commitment, or agreement; signifies a failure to uphold responsibilities or obligations.

• Susceptible to Something: Vulnerable or open to being influenced or harmed by a particular factor; indicates a lack of resistance or immunity.

Test your understanding of key vocabulary related to media, ethics, and communication. This quiz covers terms such as propaganda, defamation, and conspiracy theories, aiming to enhance your grasp of these concepts. Perfect for anyone interested in media literacy and critical thinking.