"In Conversation" Series
Lecturer:
Prof. Ruti Mayo (Hebrew University)
Title:
The Two Faces of Skepticism: How Distrust Both Fights and Fuels the Infodemic
Abstract:
In this post-truth era, it is often claimed that people rely on their gut rather than facts and expert opinions, resulting in heightened susceptibility to disinformation. In this talk, I will explore the mechanisms underlying the falsification of disinformation, focusing particularly on the role of distrust. I will present research demonstrating how distrust can act both as a safeguard against disinformation and as a catalyst for its creation and acceptance. To address this paradox, I will propose a new framework that shifts the focus from truth evaluation to a critical distinction between objective and subjective information, offering a fresh perspective on combating the infodemic.
Location:
Eilan Hall, Feldman Building, Second Floor, Edmond Safra Campus.