New Books in Science, Technology, and Society Understanding Disinformation
Jan 30, 2025
Dr. H. Colleen Sinclair, an Associate Research Professor of Social Psychology at LSU, tackles the complex world of disinformation. She shares her journey from aspiring doctor to focusing on social issues and misinformation. Listeners learn about the 'infodemic' during COVID-19 and its psychological impacts. Sinclair highlights the importance of questioning inherited beliefs and emphasizes strategies to navigate misinformation, urging a mindset of curiosity and critical thinking to protect vulnerable populations from online threats.
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The Carrot Conspiracy
- Dr. Colleen Sinclair’s son, at eight years old, became a vegetarian.
- This led to a discussion about carrots and eyesight, revealing a common misconception rooted in wartime disinformation.
Infodemic
- The term "infodemic" describes the rapid spread of misinformation during crises like pandemics.
- This proliferation of false information creates an additional challenge alongside the crisis itself.
Scrutinize Sources
- During crises, be extra critical of online information sources.
- Recognize the increased vulnerability to misinformation during these times.