Why Misinformation Works: The Psychology Behind Climate Disinformation

John Cook, a senior research fellow specializing in climate misinformation, and Dominik A. Stecuła, a political scientist exploring public opinion and polarization, delve into the mechanics of misinformation. They discuss how false claims impact beliefs more than intent, and the powerful role of elite cues in shaping public opinion. The duo highlights how social media complicates the information landscape and explains the importance of framing solutions to align with values. Their insights illuminate why traditional fact-checking is often not enough to combat widespread misinformation.