Lee McIntyre

Guest Lee McIntyre, Research Fellow at the Center for Philosophy and History of Science at Boston University, discusses disinformation and protecting democracy with Michael Shermer. They cover topics such as the source of disinformation, erosion of democracy under Trump, the impact of misinformation on voter behavior, effectiveness of masks, balancing extremism, and engaging in meaningful conversations to fight disinformation.

Lee McIntyre, an American philosopher and author specializing in truth and disinformation, dives deep into the complexities of our information landscape. He explains the critical differences between misinformation and disinformation, emphasizing the role of the internet in amplifying misleading narratives. McIntyre discusses the emotional and ideological hurdles posed by reality denial and its threats to democracy. He also highlights the alarming trend of local newspaper closures in the U.S. and how this crisis exacerbates the spread of disinformation in communities.

Lee McIntyre, a philosopher and author at Boston University, dives into the complex world of disinformation. He clarifies the critical differences between disinformation and misinformation, emphasizing intentional deception. The discussion highlights the troubling rise of disinformation in the digital age and its impact on democracy. McIntyre stresses the importance of media integrity, contrasting U.S. polarized views with nuanced reporting. He also addresses the decline of local journalism and its implications for community trust and informed discourse.

Lee McIntyre discusses defending science from denial, fraud, and pseudoscience through public education. Emphasizing evidence-based reasoning, the importance of scientific communication beyond discoveries, and the role of culture in shaping scientific attitudes and engaging with science deniers.

Author and scholar of science denial, Lee McIntyre, discusses the history of strategic denialism and the creators of disinformation. He highlights the parallels between 'reality denial' and science denial and provides practical steps to combat disinformation. The podcast also explores the role of mentors, power dynamics in disinformation, and the movement of tactics from Russia to American politics.