It’s not (all) about the information: The role of cognition in creating and sustaining false beliefs

Kelly, Dominique; Burkell, Jacquelyn

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/117202 Copy

Description

Title

It’s not (all) about the information: The role of cognition in creating and sustaining false beliefs

Author(s)

• Kelly, Dominique
• Burkell, Jacquelyn

Date of Publication

2024

Keyword(s)

• Misinformation
• False beliefs
• Cognitive biases and heuristics
• Information design
• Corrections

Abstract

This chapter focuses on how it is possible to become and remain misinformed even when the information we receive is not itself misleading or inaccurate. In common usage, the term ‘misinformed’ refers to someone who holds false beliefs, and the most obvious source of false beliefs is inaccurate information. In some cases, however, false beliefs arise from and are sustained by biases in the way that information is interpreted and recalled. We begin the chapter by examining the role of cognitive biases and heuristics in creating five misconceptions observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. We then explain why accurate information does not always or necessarily correct misconceptions – and, in certain situations, can even entrench false beliefs. Throughout the chapter, we outline strategies that information professionals can use to reduce the possibility that false beliefs arise from, and persist in the face of, accurate information.

Publisher

Cambridge University Press

Series/Report Name or Number

Cambridge Studies on Governing Knowledge Commons

Type of Resource

text

Language

en

Sponsor(s)/Grant Number(s)

• NSF: SES
• Divn Of Social and Economic Sciences
• #2017495

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