S3 Ep 45: How to Spot Misinformation Online w/ Jessica Yellin
Nov 10, 2023
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Renowned journalist and author, Jessica Yellin, discusses the challenges of identifying misinformation online and the importance of reliable information. She also explores the changing landscape of journalism in the digital age and the role of speed and bias in news reporting. Additionally, the podcast covers the impact of graphic content on mental health and provides strategies for spotting misinformation online and promoting critical thinking.
Teaching kids to consume news responsibly involves approaching news with compassion and curiosity to prevent emotional manipulation.
Building trust in news sources requires evaluating credibility based on context, expertise, and consistency, while diversifying sources and recognizing potential biases.
Deep dives
Teaching Kids to Consume News Responsibly
In this podcast episode, the importance of teaching kids to consume news responsibly is discussed. The host emphasizes the need to understand the difference between propaganda and reliable information. Jessica Yellen, a former political journalist, shares insights and tips on how to navigate the complexities of news consumption. It is highlighted that while empathy is important, approaching news with compassion and curiosity can help ensure critical thinking and prevent emotional manipulation. The episode also addresses the role of bias in reporting, the challenges of social media, and the importance of verifying sources before reposting.
Building Trust in News Sources
Building trust in news sources is crucial for discerning reliable information. The podcast suggests evaluating the credibility of sources based on context, the expertise of the source, and consistency in providing accurate information. Understanding terms like 'on background' and 'unnamed sources' helps gauge the reliability of information. Highlighting the importance of rigorous reporting standards, the episode encourages relying on sources with established practices for fact-checking. It is recommended to diversify news sources and approach each with awareness of potential biases.
Navigating the Challenges of Social Media
The podcast delves into the impact of social media on news consumption and the challenges it presents. It cautions against blindly believing everything on social media and encourages fact-checking and verifying information before sharing. The episode highlights the need to avoid getting caught in the algorithmic manipulation of social media platforms and suggests disconnecting from social media to engage with news sources deliberately. In addition, practicing discernment and critical thinking when exposed to graphic or sensational content is emphasized.
Encouraging Responsible News Sharing
The episode explores ways to promote responsible news sharing, particularly among adolescents. It recommends asking critical questions before reposting, such as checking the credibility of the original source, researching additional news outlets for confirmation, and avoiding sharing posts from unknown or unreliable sources. The importance of distinguishing between genuine news and propaganda is highlighted. Cultivating compassion and curiosity in news consumption is suggested to foster a balanced and informed approach to sharing news.
Join us for a compelling interview with renowned journalist and author, Jessica Yellin, as we delve into the art of discerning misinformation online. Yellin shares how to be a savvy consumer of news and social media and gives us a deeper understanding of the challenges posed by AI and misinformation, and the tools we need to make informed decisions in this age of information overload.
This episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct, or indirect financial interest in products, or services referred to in this episode.