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“How anticipatory cover-ups go wrong” by Kaj_Sotala

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Aug 9, 2025
Kaj Sotala, author and insightful thinker, explores the complex dynamics of communication and mistrust, particularly during the COVID vaccine rollout. He discusses how anticipatory cover-ups, aimed at preventing misinformation, often backfire, leading to greater distrust among the public. Through real-world examples, Kaj highlights the dire consequences of withholding information and stresses the importance of transparency. He unpacks the delicate balance between protecting relationships and the potential harms of secrecy in fostering understanding.
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ANECDOTE

Vaccine Data And Hidden Statistics

  • Kaj Sotala describes authorities hiding vaccine data to avoid misinterpretation.
  • Skeptics then assumed the data were damning and publicized them in the worst light.
INSIGHT

Reasonable Actions Can Escalate Distrust

  • Kaj Sotala observes both sides acted reasonably given they expected the other to be untrustworthy.
  • Their anticipatory actions then confirmed distrust and escalated mutual hostility.
ANECDOTE

Withheld Feedback Creates Anxiety Spiral

  • Kaj Sotala recounts Alice withholding criticism to avoid upsetting Bob, which made him assume worse implications.
  • Their avoidance stopped corrective feedback and let last-minute lateness continue.
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