You Are Not So Smart
267 - Do Your Own Research - Sedona Chinn
Aug 19, 2023
Sedona Chinn, researcher of competing scientific claims, discusses the irony of 'do your own research' advocates not actually conducting independent research. The origin of the phrase is traced to Bill Cooper and its association with online conspiracy theory communities. The evolution of 'do your own research' is explored, emphasizing autonomy and psychological factors. The importance of therapy and declining trust in institutions are also discussed. The phenomenon of shared conspiracy theories between far-right and far-left is examined.
41:53
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Quick takeaways
- Those who preach the importance of doing your own research often engage in less research themselves, leading to incorrect beliefs and decreased trust in experts.
- The phrase 'do your own research' has evolved into a rallying call for anti-establishment beliefs, allowing individuals to assert their independence and skepticism towards experts and institutions.
Deep dives
The Disconnect Between Advocating for Research and Actually Doing It
Contrary to popular belief, those who strongly advocate for doing your own research often don't engage in extensive research themselves. A study by Dr. Sedona Chin from the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that individuals who frequently promote the idea of doing your own research actually held more incorrect beliefs and had declining levels of trust in doctors, scientists, and institutions compared to those who do not emphasize this phrase. This suggests that the phrase 'do your own research' may be more of a declaration to justify one's pre-existing beliefs rather than an actual commitment to seeking out and evaluating information.
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