From Misunderstanding to Malice: Countering Mis- and Disinformation
Co-organized by EOS1/GM13
Convener:
Kirsten v. Elverfeldt
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Co-conveners:
Flora Maria Brocza,
Maida Salkanovic,
Chloe Hill,
Simon Clark
Many scientists feel somewhat uneasy in this ecosystem - lacking the tools to engage meaningfully. For example, when talking to journalists, information on the uncertainty of data may not be conveyed for the sake of clear and easy-to-follow storylines. Facts may be simplified or even misrepresented, which might lead to a certain reluctance of scientists to talk to journalists. However, especially this type of direct science-media-interaction is crucial for the debunking of mis- and disinformation.
On the other end of the spectrum is disinformation, which is not a misunderstanding, but happens intentionally: Deliberate false information is a common occurrence that we have all encountered around topics of societal relevance, such as climate change. Real data may be used out of context - or data might be an outright lie, made up for the sake of an argument, presented by questionable ‘experts’. The spread of such disinformation follows a political agenda or a certain ideology. It fosters polarization, disrupts informed decision-making, obstructs constructive dialogue, and subsequently poses a threat to social cohesion and democracy. The extreme end of the mis-/disinformation spectrum are conspiracy theories, which can cause considerable harm to social solidarity and peace.
This short course is a space for researchers to meet with journalists, fact checkers, and media-experienced scientists to provide a platform for questions, mutual understanding and creating a joint force against mis- and disinformation.
Speakers:
- Chloe Hill: EGU Policy Manager
- Vitalba Crivello: Science-Policy and Science Communication expert
- Juha-Pekka Jäpölä: Project Officer, DG for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO), European Commission
14:00–14:05
Welcome
14:05–14:20
Introduction
14:20–15:10
Discussion groups
15:10–15:40
Reflection
15:40–15:45
Conclusion
Speakers
- Juha-Pekka Jäpölä, European Commission, Belgium
- Vitalba Crivello, Belgium