Combatting and pushing back on lies and conspiracy theories is a critical role for journalists ...
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Journalists claiming it's their job to "combat" conspiracy theories raises a thorny question: does debunking actually neutralize misinformation, or does it backfire and spread it further?
Backfire EffectInoculation TheoryEpistemic AuthorityAgenda-Setting Theory
Theory Briefing
- Scott MacFarlane argues journalists have a critical duty to push back on lies and conspiracy theories, not just report them.
- The Backfire Effect warns that directly refuting false beliefs can entrench them deeper in true believers' minds.
- This debate cuts to the heart of epistemology — who gets to be the authoritative gatekeeper of truth in a fragmented media landscape?