Michael Schwalbe

Samuel Woolley, a disinformation expert, joins Katie Joseff, a misinformation researcher, and Michael Schwalbe, a postdoctoral fellow studying polarization. They discuss the newly identified cognitive distortion called concordance over truth bias, which leads people to favor information that aligns with their beliefs. The conversation dives into how psychological factors influence susceptibility to fake news, the challenges of identifying biases, and the implications of misinformation in a polarized society. Their insights urge a call for critical thinking and intellectual humility.

In this discussion, Michael Schwalbe, a postdoctoral fellow focused on political news biases, and Geoff Cohen, a psychology professor studying belonging and self-concept, tackle the fascinating interplay between politics and truth. They highlight how individuals often prioritize politically aligned news over factual accuracy, a tendency amplified by social media. The conversation dives into the implications for democracy and explores ways to combat misinformation. Their insights urge greater self-awareness and critical thinking in an increasingly polarized media landscape.