
David Robert Grimes
Author and disinformation expert specialising in the science of misinformation and public-health communication, and author of The Irrational Ape.
Top 5 podcasts with David Robert Grimes
Ranked by the Snipd community

13 snips
Aug 31, 2025 • 58min
The Irrational Ape: Facts, Feelings, and the Spread of Misinformation
David Robert Grimes, a physicist and author known for his work in medical physics and science communication, takes us on a fascinating journey through the world of misinformation. He explains why mere facts often fail to change minds and discusses the emotional biases that shape our understanding. Grimes emphasizes the urgent need for media literacy and critical thinking to combat misinformation, especially in crises. He also explores healthcare disparities between the U.S. and Europe, highlighting systemic reforms for better public health outcomes.

Nov 10, 2023 • 49min
Navigating online misinformation and improving science communication, with David R. Grimes
David R. Grimes, a notable science writer and author of ‘The Irrational Ape,’ dives into the swirling vortex of online misinformation. He discusses the mechanics behind disinformation and its steep rise on social media, highlighting its dual nature as both a challenge and a powerful tool for science communication. Grimes emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, compassionate communication regarding vaccine hesitancy, and the value of engaging in respectful dialogue to tackle disagreements. Embracing uncertainty, he encourages continuous learning in navigating our complex information landscape.

Dec 4, 2025 • 13min
Australia to introduce age restrictions on social media
David Robert Grimes, an author and disinformation expert, dives into Australia’s groundbreaking decision to ban social media accounts for those under 16. He discusses the challenges of age verification, the public health framing of the law, and the mix of support and backlash from parents and teenagers. Grimes also highlights global interest in this initiative and outlines potential comparisons to public health laws like those governing alcohol and smoking. The conversation shifts to issues in the U.S. regarding vaccine misinformation and controversial CDC appointments.

Nov 27, 2025 • 12min
Disinformation slot with David Robert Grimes
David Robert Grimes, a physicist and the author of 'The Irrational Ape', dives into the complexities of public information about criminal suspects. He discusses how rumors can spark unrest and reviews the UK's proposed reforms on disclosure to combat misinformation. Grimes highlights how the far right weaponizes speculation online and the impact of motivated reasoning on public beliefs. He also references studies showing people's ideological biases can distort their understanding of facts, especially regarding immigration issues in Ireland.

Aug 19, 2022 • 1h 35min
#153 Dr David Robert Grimes
Dr. David Robert Grimes, Cancer researcher, physicist and author of 'The Irrational Ape', discusses critical thinking, conspiracy theories, harmful thinking patterns, avoiding online charlatans, the harm in wellness culture, and the importance of evidence in society.


