The Behavioral Design Podcast
Misinformation Machines with Gordon Pennycook – Part 1
Nov 4, 2024
Gordon Pennycook, a psychology professor at Cornell University, dives deep into the tangled web of misinformation in U.S. elections. He discusses how falsehoods gain traction, especially on social media, and the psychological appeal behind conspiracy theories. Gordon highlights the role of AI in both spreading and combating misinformation and explores why untruths spread faster than facts. The conversation is filled with insights on human gullibility and the surprising impact of humor on belief systems, shedding light on the urgent need for critical thinking today.
53:26
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Quick takeaways
- Misinformation significantly impacts democratic participation, especially concerning the trustworthiness of election-related information and voting processes.
- The interplay between behavior and credibility leads individuals to favor information from influential figures, amplifying sensational and misleading claims.
Deep dives
Behavioral Science Meets AI
The integration of behavioral science and artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly relevant, particularly in understanding user interactions with intelligent systems. Experts in the field, such as health tech advisors and behavioral strategists, emphasize the importance of crafting human-centered products that utilize behavioral design principles. Their work focuses on leveraging AI to enhance these designs, ultimately driving long-term behavior change in users. The conversation highlights that successful applications of AI in health tech can empower individuals to reach their wellness goals by providing personalized insights and nudges.
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