11. EOTO 2 Reaction

I find disinformation to be particularly interesting because of its similarity to misinformation. Before this presentation, I understood that misinformation refers to the spread of false information. Disinformation, however, is like its cruel sister; it involves the intentional spread of false information with the goal of misleading people. Individuals may be drawn to disinformation because it can create a sense of unity, alleviate shame, and provide a feeling of power. This pull towards disinformation often stems from how disinformation confirms preexisting beliefs. For instance, if I were a flat earther and encountered information claiming that NASA supports the flat earth theory, it would reinforce my preexisting ideas. Furthermore, disinformation is enticing because it can explain unexplainable events and offer answers that people desperately seek. Although it may help individuals cope with various challenges, it poses significant dangers. Disinformation undermines trust in the media, requiring individuals to double and triple-check sources and any news they encounter due to the risk of being misled. In the example of flat earthers, while the flat earth community may be united through disinformation, the divide between them and those who believe in the round earth continues to widen. The inability to discern what is real and what is disinformation can create dangerous uncertainty, leaving people unsure of what to believe. So, how can we combat disinformation? The key is to conduct thorough research. By seeking out supporting news, checking publishers and publication dates, and consulting knowledgeable individuals, you can protect yourself from falling for disinformation. It is also important to examine your own personal biases while doing research to ensure you aren’t believing disinformation simply because it aligns with your prior narratives.