A History of Fake Things on the Internet

The book "A History of Fake Things on the Internet" explores the origins of fake news, conspiracy theories, paranormal reports, and other deviations from reality that have become part of mainstream culture. It investigates the technical advances that made new developments in digital deception possible and introduces us to the visionaries and mischief-makers who first deployed digital fakery. The author argues that problems associated with fake content are not intrinsic properties of the content itself but rather stem from human behavior.

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 05 December 2023
Publisher: Stanford University Press

As our social and informational realms continue to transition towards an increasingly digital landscape, the distinction between what is authentic and what is digitally fabricated becomes increasingly blurred. The impact of fake content extends far beyond the virtual realm, exerting real-world consequences that are undeniable. In this context, "A History of Fake Things on the Internet" offers a comprehensive exploration of the evolution of faked content, tracing its roots from the early days of image manipulation in nineteenth-century darkrooms to the present-day proliferation of AI-generated Deepfakes.

Computer scientist Walter J. Scheirer delves deep into the origins of fake news, conspiracy theories, paranormal reports, and other deviations from reality that have become integral parts of mainstream culture. He examines the historical progression of Internet fakes, from early hoaxes spread through Bulletin Board Systems (BBSs), USENET, and email to the hyperrealistic, AI-generated Deepfakes of today. Scheirer, an expert in machine learning and recognition, breaks down the technical advancements that have enabled new developments in digital deception. He also shares behind-the-scenes details of early Internet-era pranks that have become legendary in the hacker community.

Through his narrative, Scheirer introduces us to the visionaries and mischief-makers who pioneered the use of digital fakery and continue to shape its evolution. These individuals include computer hackers, digital artists, media forensics specialists, and AI researchers. They play pivotal roles in developing techniques and tools for creating and detecting fake content, as well as exploring the ethical and societal implications of its proliferation.

One of the key insights offered by "A History of Fake Things on the Internet" is that the problems associated with fake content are not inherent to the content itself but rather stem from human behavior. Scheirer argues that our capacity for both creativity and deception is what drives the creation and dissemination of fake content. He emphasizes the importance of education, awareness, and responsible digital behavior in combating the threat posed by fake news and other forms of digital deception.

The book also raises important questions about the role of technology in shaping our perception of reality. As faked content becomes more sophisticated and realistic, it can challenge our ability to discern what is authentic and what is not. This raises concerns about the impact of fake content on public opinion, political discourse, and individual identity.

In conclusion, "A History of Fake Things on the Internet" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the evolving landscape of faked content and its profound implications. By tracing the history of fake content, exploring its technical advancements, and examining the human behavior behind its creation, the book offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities posed by the digital age. As we navigate an increasingly interconnected world, it is crucial that we develop the skills and knowledge necessary to discern truth from fiction and promote a culture of digital integrity.

Weight: 578g
Dimension: 160 x 238 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781503632882