VIMS scientists take on ‘fake news’ and real science
But there are ways.
Consider the source. Look for consensus. Learn who to trust. Check your own biases.
And, when it comes to science, the consequences for failing basic due diligence can be very real.
"Very public consequences in terms of policies that may not be well-informed," said
To help the public distinguish scientifically sound news from counterfeit, VIMS is hosting a public panel discussion on "
Panelists will make their presentations, then address written questions from the audience.
The evening will start with the basics.
"By defining what fake news is," said VIMS spokesman and panelist
As technologies advance and make it possible to create a video that, say, puts words into someone's mouth and make it seem genuine, he said, "it really boils down to trust."
"And that's one of the things that's most corrosive about fake news is the corrosion of the trust of the public in scientists and in government," Malmquist said. "We do everything we can to be an honest broker of research-based facts, and it's very frustrating when people aren't trusting you as that type of an information source."
VIMS is an affiliate of the
And when scientists have to spend too much time trying to disabuse policymakers of erroneous information, said Hershner, "it just distracts from our ability to be effective."
Still, doubters can be brought around.
In just the past five years or so, for example, there has been a "remarkable turnaround" in scientists' ability to talk to policymakers about climate change, he said.
"The consensus has finally taken root in their understanding," said Hershner. "So it's rare to find someone not accepting of the reality."
The panel discussion is set to start at
The event is free, but space is limited, so attendees are asked to register online at www.vims.edu/events or by calling 804-684-7061.
Contact Dietrich at 757-247-7892 or [email protected]. Follow on Twitter at DP_Dietrich
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