David G. Rand

Thomas H. Costello, a psychology professor at American University, Gordon Pennycook from Cornell University, and MIT's David G. Rand discuss their innovative tool, Debunkbot, which leverages AI to tackle conspiracy theories. They delve into how this GPT-powered model successfully engages users with evidence-based dialogues, effectively reducing conspiratorial beliefs. The conversation explores the psychology behind misinformation, the complexities of belief systems, and how AI can facilitate empathetic communication to shift deeply held views.

David Rand, a Cornell University professor specializing in Information Science and marketing, explores the intersection of AI and conspiracy theories. He discusses how AI chatbots can engage individuals entrenched in conspiracies to promote factual understanding, revealing surprising results from recent studies. Rand delves into the psychological allure of these beliefs, comparing their spread to evolutionary concepts. He also highlights innovative tools like debunkbot.com, demonstrating AI's potential to combat misinformation across various fields.