Science Fictions Paid-only Episode 10: Misinformation, debunked
Jul 23, 2024
Exploring the irony of misinformation researchers spreading misinformation, critiquing the field as 'bullshit science'. Analyzing the impact of misinformation in society, from historic examples to modern social media consequences. Delving into how misinformation behaves like a virus, influencing beliefs and behaviors. Unpacking harmful effects of misinformation, linking to hate crimes and discrimination.
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Researchers Can Spread Misinformation
- Misinformation researchers sometimes spread misleading claims and do poor science according to the hosts.
- Tom Chivers and Stuart Ritchie argue a prominent strand of misinformation research has gone seriously wrong.
Public Debate Outpaces Evidence
- The public debate on misinformation has become detached from the actual evidence, the hosts say.
- They warn that claims about widespread harmful effects are often exaggerated and naive.
Social Media Is A Vector, Not Sole Cause
- Social media is framed as a primary vector for misinformation and blamed for offline harms.
- The hosts acknowledge platforms matter but caution against simplistic claims that social media alone causes major societal change.