Misinformation from all sides (with Brian Dunning)
May 14, 2025
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Brian Dunning, host of the Skeptoid podcast and author, dives into the murky waters of misinformation. He explores the thin line between belief and deception, highlighting how even well-intentioned claims can spread falsehoods. Dunning discusses conspiracy theories, weighing their credibility against historical truths. The conversation shifts to the legacies of figures like Nikola Tesla and the allure of UAPs, emphasizing critical thinking. Lastly, he underscores the human struggle with misinformation and the need for empathy in combating skepticism.
Misinformation often spreads innocently through casual conversations, highlighting the need for skepticism and verification when consuming information.
Emotional and psychological factors influence belief systems, prompting even misinformation promoters to sincerely believe in their claims for profit.
Both political left and right engage with their own set of conspiracy theories, revealing a shared vulnerability to misinformation across ideological lines.
Deep dives
The Ubiquity of Misinformation
Misinformation is pervasive and constantly evolving, often stemming from people innocently passing along incorrect information. This can occur in everyday situations, such as casual conversations where false details about common topics are shared. However, some misinformation is intentionally disseminated by individuals with vested interests, including politicians and marketers who craft narratives that serve their goals. Vigilance is crucial when consuming information, as individuals should approach claims with skepticism and seek verification before accepting them as truth.
Manipulation in Various Industries
Misinformation is significantly prevalent in industries like organic food and wellness, where misleading claims are often propagated for financial gain. Despite the promotion of products or practices that some may believe are beneficial, the underlying motivations often revolve around profit rather than genuine consumer well-being. The complexity of human belief systems plays a role, as even those promoting misinformation may genuinely believe in the efficacy of their products. This highlights the emotional and psychological factors that contribute to how people engage with and spread misinformation.
The Fragility of Memory
Human memory is often far less reliable than individuals believe, as it can be easily influenced by external factors and leading questions. Cases such as the memories surrounding significant events, like 9/11, illustrate how recollections can change over time, resulting in discrepancies between past beliefs and current narratives. The tendency for individuals to confidently assert false memories underscores the fallibility of our recollections, which can lead to the reinforcement of misinformation. Understanding the malleability of memory is essential in combating false beliefs.
Indifference and Misinformation
A substantial portion of misinformation arises not from deception but from a general indifference towards verifying facts. This phenomenon, often referred to as 'bullshitting,' occurs when individuals do not care to ensure the accuracy of the information they share, leading to the spread of false claims. The reluctance to engage deeply with information can create an environment where sensationalist or inaccurate narratives flourish. Understanding the difference between deliberate misinformation and careless reporting is key when addressing the broader issue of false beliefs in society.
Skepticism Across the Political Spectrum
Misinformation can be found across the political spectrum, with various conspiracy theories attracting different groups based on their ideologies. Studies indicate that both the left and right engage with their respective sets of conspiracy theories, often remaining blind to similar beliefs held by the opposing side. The tendency to dismiss misinformation espoused by those on the opposite political spectrum fuels polarization and further entrenches individuals in their beliefs. Acknowledging the shared susceptibility to misinformation across political boundaries can foster a more open dialogue and encourage critical thinking.
Why is misinformation a never-ending problem? What fraction of misinformation is intentionally manipulative? What's the difference between bullshit and other kinds of misinformation? What are the various kinds of beliefs we hold? How do the political left and right (at least in the US) differ in their production and consumption of misinformation? Have any conspiracy theories ever been proven right? Did Jeffrey Epstein kill himself? Why do people listen to Alex Jones? Was Nikola Tesla a fraud? Why does any of this matter? What do we know about UAPs / UFOs? What is the "Christmas tree problem"? Could an advanced human or alien civilization invent interstellar travel technology? What's something you're wrong about?
Brian Dunning is the host and producer of the Skeptoid podcast; the writer and presenter of the documentary films The UFO Movie THEY Don't Want You to See, Science Friction, and Principles of Curiosity; and the author of seven books such as Conspiracies Declassified (Simon & Schuster, 2018). He is a member of the National Association of Science Writers. Learn more about him on his website, briandunning.com.
