In today’s world, where there is a wealth of fake news and misleading content all across the internet, it is extremely pertinent that our large social media technology conglomerates take part in regulating truth. The dictionary definition of fact-checking is to confirm the truth of (an assertion made in speech or writing), often as part of the research or editorial process.

It is important to move beyond recent narratives of fake news and immediate political moments, to emphasize that fact checking is a wider consideration of human nature and our interactions. Simply put, fact-checking is a form of critical, investigative inquiry. Part of the approach of fact-checking is the awareness of the cognitive biases innate to each of us. While these biases help us navigate everyday life, they can cause us to overlook relevant facts, even when they are clearly presented.

This is a no brainer for content shared on social media platforms around the world. Facebook should add fact-checking flags on all posts to their platforms to point out false or misleading content. Our world and it’s inhabitants need protection from those that want to spread misinformation for their own political, monetary or any other gain.