The Logics of Fact-Checking Website Operations

Abstract

Adopting an institutional logics perspective, this study examines various fact-checking practices in the context of three field-level logics that may shape these practices: a journalistic logic, a social-service logic, and a market logic. We conceptualize fact-checking sites as hybrid operations that are likely to be shaped by multiple logics, but which may show signs of standardization. Findings from a content analysis of diverse fact-checkers showed a vibrancy and similarity of stand-alone fact-checkers, suggesting these may be a budding institutional form. However, findings also reveal a field that is diverse in its organizational types, practices, and logics.