Definitions of Misinformation
Before we dive right in, let's start with a little activity. Watch the video below to get started.
How did that make you feel?
That was pretty cute, right? Now play this next video to get a bit more information.
How did that make you feel?
You just got duped.
Kinda sucks, doesn't it? Think about how it felt to realize that the first video was made intentionally to misguide the audience into feeling a certain way.
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With something as silly as a pig rescuing a goat, there are negligible consequences. However, picture the emotions you experienced amplified to a greater extent. When this stuff is targeted towards vulnerable populations, it can impact their health and well-being. That is the power of misinformation. ​
Definitions
Misinformation
Misinformation is "false information that is spread, regardless of whether there is intent to mislead” (University of Washington Bothell, 2022).
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This can include
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The misinterpretation of scientific research leading to improper conclusions.
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False, inaccurate or misleading information which can be intentionally or unintentionally spread or used to develop misleading/inaccurate conclusions.
Disinformation
Disinformation is "deliberately misleading or biased information; manipulated narrative or facts; propaganda” (University of Washington Bothell, 2022).
Fake News
Fake news is "purposefully crafted, sensational, emotionally charged, misleading or totally fabricated information that mimics the form of mainstream news" (University of Washington Bothell, 2022).
Putting a name to it
Let's try to use these definitions in practice before we move on. Take a look at the examples of information below, and try to figure out which category they fit under. When you think you know, click on the classification tab to see where it truly fits.
About Us
Science for Everyone is a Canadian Nonprofit Organization that provides educational resources to help raise the level of scientific literacy in the general population.