Uncovering Misinformation/Disinformation Narratives on Twitter in the Czech Republic: A Critical Discourse Analysis

• Thesis title in Czech: Odhalování misinformačních/dezinformačních narativů na Twitteru v České republice: Kritická diskurzívní analýza
• Thesis title in English: Uncovering Misinformation/Disinformation Narratives on Twitter in the Czech Republic: A Critical Discourse Analysis
• Academic year of topic announcement: 2024/2025
• Thesis type: diploma thesis
• Thesis language: angličtina
• Department: Department of International Relations (23-KMV)
• Supervisor: Mgr. Kristián Földes, Ph.D.

Guidelines

Misinformation/disinformation has become a major concern in today's digital age, and social media platforms have provided a fertile ground for its spread. This study aims to explore the narratives of misinformation/disinformation spreaders on Twitter in the Czech Republic. By applying a Critical discourse analysis approach, this research will examine the semantic and pragmatic properties of text to identify the main narratives, topics, and strategies used by these spreaders to disseminate misinformation/disinformation.

The research will be based on a sample of Twitter accounts that have been identified as active in spreading misinformation/disinformation in the Czech Republic. The study will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining Qualitative content analysis and an interpretive Critical discourse analysis technique to provide a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon.

The primary objective of this study is to contribute to the existing literature on misinformation/disinformation by providing insights into the narratives and strategies of those who spread it. Furthermore, it aims to provide a better understanding of how these narratives and strategies operate in the context of the Czech Republic. The findings of this study could have practical implications for policymakers, journalists, and social media companies in combating misinformation/disinformation and improving media literacy among the public.

Overall, this research seeks to shed light on the complex phenomenon of misinformation/disinformation in the Czech Republic, providing a deeper understanding of the narratives and strategies used to spread it on Twitter. By doing so, this study aims to contribute to the ongoing efforts to combat misinformation/disinformation in the digital age.