The use and roles of misinformation, disinformation, malinformation and dark knowledge in political contexts
The prevalence of misinformation, disinformation and malinformation in society has been described by experts as an ‘infodemic’. Dark knowledge may be hidden or forbidden knowledge used to produce these forms of disnormative information. These forms are particularly prevalent within political contexts and may adversely influence democratic processes.
Research Opportunities
Summary
This project seeks to explore the roles of dark knowledge and its informational outputs (including misinformation, disinformation and malinformation) in political contexts. It would be particularly suitable for students with an interest and/or background in the use of information in a political context.
These contexts are not specified but may include: political campaigns, political/democratic movements (including Scottish independence), regional/national elections, etc. While it is anticipated that political contexts outwith the UK may inform the study, the focus of this research should primarily be on the political context in the UK.
Potential research questions include:
- How do misinformation, disinformation and malinformation manifest themselves in political contexts?
- How is dark knowledge employed in the production of misinformation, disinformation and malinformation?
- What are the potential and actual impacts of misinformation, disinformation and malinformation on democratic processes?
- What channels are used to facilitate the transfer of misinformation, disinformation and malinformation?
This study will contribute to understanding the complexities of information disorders and offer insights for policymakers to enhance information integrity in political discourse. It is anticipated that a highly qualitative research approach is utilised within this study.
Potential impacts for this project include:
- A framework for the identification of disnormative political information sources
- An assessment of the impacts of disnormative political information on UK politics
- An understanding of the roles of media channels in the distribution of disnormative political information
Supervisor
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Research Themes
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About our Research Degrees
We welcome specific ideas from applicants for a potential research degree topic. The University offers a number of potential self-funded topics in each School which you could consider developing your research project around.
It is not unusual for a proposed research degree topic to evolve as you progress through the application stage and even your future studies. This ensures the best match of your academic/professional experience with that of your supervisory team.
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Entry requirements
Entry Requirements for Research Degrees
Normal entry requirements are a first or upper second class honours degree from a University of the United Kingdom, or from an overseas University, or degree equivalent qualification, subject to the approval of Robert Gordon University.
Applicants holding other qualifications shall be considered on their merits and in relation to the nature and scope of the proposed research programme.
Applicants will normally register for an MSc/PhD or MRes/PhD with transfer to PhD dependent on satisfactory progress. However, applicants who already possess a Master’s degree which includes a significant research component could be registered directly for a PhD, subject to a satisfactory research proposal, and clear evidence of research expertise.
Some Research Degree Topics require employment experience, research experience and/or transcripts for international qualifications.
Contact researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk to see if you are eligible.
English Language
Any applicant whose first language or language of previous University-level instruction is not English must normally demonstrate competence in English. This should be a score of IELTS 6.5 with 6.5 in all elements, or an approved equivalent.
We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:
Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk for further information.
Fees & Costs
For Academic Year 2025/2026
UK/EU Students
- Full time - £5,006 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £3,000 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £3,000 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - £20,030 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £12,020 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £12,020 per academic year
For Academic Year 2024/2025
UK/EU Students
- Full time - £4,786 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £2,870 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £2,390 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - £16,980 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £10,190 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £8,490 per academic year
Additional Costs
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- The cost of books that you may wish to purchase.
- Costs associated with any placement / study abroad
- Accommodation and Living Costs
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Robert Gordon University is delighted to offer a 20% discount on course fees for all alumni who have graduated from RGU.
Scholarships and Financial Awards
Postgraduate research students will normally make their own arrangements for payment of fees. However you may qualify for a scholarship or financial award:
Funded Studentships
Occasionally, the University will also advertise available funded studentships, for very specific topics or subjects:
Disclaimer
For new intakes, course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in the offer letter. For further information:
How to Apply
Applications
All applications should be made via the University's online application for research students.
Before you apply, find out more about the application process, research proposal writing guides, routes and durations:
Our Research degrees usually start in February and October each year. There are no formal deadlines for you to submit your application, though we recommend you submit it as early as possible in order to ensure we can help you join us at your preferred time.
Completed application forms should be accompanied by:
- Degree certificate
- Statement of purpose, detailing why you would like to study this degree in the UK, and why you have chosen RGU.
- A short research proposal, in the range of 1,500 - 3,000 words, containing a rationale and background, study aims and objectives, a literature review, proposed research methods and a full reference list.
Further guidance on the application process:
English Language Requirements
All applicants whose first language is not from a recognised English speaking country will be asked to provide evidence of their English language skills as part of their offer to study at RGU.
Find out more about the English language qualification we accept:
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