Disinformation threatens global elections – here’s how to fight back

Scientists estimate that for every 100,000 people targeted with specific political ads, several thousand can be persuaded.

Stephan Lewandowsky, Chair of Cognitive Psychology, University of Bristol • conversation
Feb. 15, 2024 ~9 min

Disinformation is often blamed for swaying elections – the research says something else

Most studies suggests that fake news is more likely to enhance existing beliefs and views rather than radically change voting intentions of those who are undecided.

Magda Osman, Principal Research Associate in Basic and Applied Decision Making, Cambridge Judge Business School • conversation
Jan. 26, 2024 ~8 min


Misinformation: why it may not necessarily lead to bad behaviour

We often assume misinformation leads to bad beliefs which lead to antisocial behaviour. But there’s so far little evidence for this.

Zoe Adams, Research associate, Cambridge Judge Business School • conversation
Feb. 23, 2023 ~8 min

How maths can help the BBC with impartial reporting

The disinformation age is changing what it means to produce fair or balanced reporting.

Dorje C Brody, Professor of Mathematics, University of Surrey • conversation
Nov. 9, 2022 ~7 min

Fake research can be harmful to your health – a new study offers a tool for rooting it out

A new screening tool to help study reviewers identify what’s fake or shoddy in research may be on the horizon. And everyday people can apply some of the same critical analysis tools.

Lisa Bero, Research Professor Public Health and Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus • conversation
Aug. 18, 2022 ~8 min

Climate change misinformation fools too many people – but there are ways to combat it

Academics are among the most trusted sources for news about climate change.

Sander van der Linden, Professor of Social Psychology in Society and Director, Cambridge Social Decision-Making Lab, University of Cambridge • conversation
Oct. 28, 2021 ~7 min

Fake news: a simple nudge isn’t enough to tackle it – here's what to do instead

Many scientists believe attention is the key to tackling fake news – and that a form of 'priming' can help.

Jon Roozenbeek, Postdoctoral Fellow, Psychology, University of Cambridge • conversation
June 11, 2021 ~8 min

Fake news: people with greater emotional intelligence are better at spotting misinformation

The researchers are working on a way to train people to be better at spotting fake news.

David James Robertson, Lecturer in Psychology, University of Strathclyde • conversation
March 22, 2021 ~5 min


COVID-19 misinformation: scientists create a 'psychological vaccine' to protect against fake news

A 'psychological vaccine' has proven effective in countering belief in COVID-19 conspiracies.

Jon Roozenbeek, Postdoctoral Fellow, Psychology, University of Cambridge • conversation
Jan. 19, 2021 ~8 min

Fake news: bold visual warnings needed to stop people clicking – new research

Prominent 'danger' signs are needed online to warn people about misinformation.

Fiona Carroll, Senior Lecturer in Digital Media and Smart Technologies, Cardiff Metropolitan University • conversation
Jan. 18, 2021 ~5 min

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