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On Our Radar: Misinformation, Magic Tricks, Mushrooms, and More

Megan Healey Megan Healey
Artsandculture
10th May 2021
On Our Radar: Misinformation, Magic Tricks, Mushrooms, and More

Note: The views and opinions expressed in blog/editorial posts are those of the author. They do not purport to reflect the views or opinions of Misbar.

The conversation surrounding misinformation, fake news, and fact-checking is constantly evolving. As changing technology changes the way we take in information, new cultural and ethical considerations arise. Here is a collection of recent readings, podcasts, and other media we’ve highlighted from around the web that address the latest issues in fact-checking.

What We’re Reading:

The psychology behind magic tricks is helping researchers understand our susceptibility to misinformation. Magicians excel at the art of misdirection; takes a similar approach. 

This article discusses heuristics, a term which refers to mental short-cuts we rely on when consuming information.  People are more likely to believe misinformation when it’s new, appeals to emotions, or confirms already held beliefs. 

CNN reporters are noticing that the Biden Administration makes an effort to amend their statements when they’re caught saying something inaccurate. 

After reporting on anti-government protests, journalist Yuki Kitazumi was accused of sharing information deemed critical of the military in Myanmar.

Three reputable news outlets all issued corrections this week when they falsely reported that Rudy Giuliani had been warned about Russian disinformation. 

“Climate entrepreneur” Joseph Kelly has spread false claims about defeating climate change by using fungi to capture CO2. Scientists claim he’s not only ill-informed, but also has dubious intentions.

What We’re Watching:

Emerging markets expert Nomava Zanazao debunks the  beliefs that African’s don’t value brands, that the continent is behind in technological advancement, along with other myths.
Photo by Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto via Getty Images)