Videos
Vanishing Numbers: How Federal Data Manipulation and Removal Threaten Journalism and Public Trust
Focus Areas
Information Distribution
Investigating how news and information travel across platforms, technologies, and audiences.
Related Research Initiatives
Computational Policy Lab, Documentary Film in the Public Interest Initiative, The HKS Misinformation Review
The Shorenstein Center’s focus on information distribution covers the methods and systems through which news and information are communicated between creators and audiences and back again—ranging from traditional print and broadcast journalism channels to digital platforms like social media, search engines, and news aggregators. Our work examines how algorithms and distribution channels shape what content reaches audiences, the speed and manner in which information spreads, and how people seek out news and essential information. We seek to understand both the opportunities and challenges these systems present for journalism and media creation, democracy, and public discourse. Through research and convenings, we aim to provide insights that help practitioners, policy makers, and audiences navigate and adapt to the rapidly changing landscape of information distribution.
Publications & Resources
Reports & Papers
Machines of Truth and Distortion – A Citizen’s Call to Action: Preparing America for the AI Flood
Commentary
The Intimacy Dividend: How AI Might Transform News Media Consumption
News
Center News
New study in Science Advances shows how simply written text reminders can help keep people out of jail
Center News
Meet the Fall 2025 Shorenstein Fellows
Center News
The Story of the United States Digital Service: Lessons from the Front Lines of Government Tech Reform
Featured Event
Dubious News and the Aging American: Understanding Discernment and Engagement Among Older Adults
In this talk, Professor Lyons will explore the question “Why do older adults engage more with misinformation online, even when they often identify falsehoods correctly in surveys?” This event is part of the Speaker Series on Misinformation, co-sponsored by the Shorenstein Center for Media, Politics and Public Policy at Harvard’s Kennedy School and the Network Science Institute at Northeastern University.
Hybrid
Wexner Building - W-434 A.B. Conference Room & Zoom
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Building Knowledge
The Shorenstein Center researches media, audience, and influence through a range of lenses and disciplines.