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Reducing Health Misinformation in Science: A Call to Arms

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  • Briony Swire-Thompson
  • David Lazer

Abstract

The public often turns to science for accurate health information, which, in an ideal world, would be error free. However, limitations of scientific institutions and scientific processes can sometimes amplify misinformation and disinformation. The current review examines four mechanisms through which this occurs: (1) predatory journals that accept publications for monetary gain but do not engage in rigorous peer review; (2) pseudoscientists who provide scientific- sounding information but whose advice is inaccurate, unfalsifiable, or inconsistent with the scientific method; (3) occasions when legitimate scientists spread misinformation or disinformation; and (4) miscommunication of science by the media and other communicators. We characterize this article as a “call to arms,†given the urgent need for the scientific information ecosystem to improve. Improvements are necessary to maintain the public’s trust in science, foster robust discourse, and encourage a well-educated citizenry.

Suggested Citation

  • Briony Swire-Thompson & David Lazer, 2022. "Reducing Health Misinformation in Science: A Call to Arms," The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, , vol. 700(1), pages 124-135, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:anname:v:700:y:2022:i:1:p:124-135
    DOI: 10.1177/00027162221087686
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Nicole M. Krause & Isabelle Freiling & Dietram A. Scheufele, 2022. "The “Infodemic†Infodemic: Toward a More Nuanced Understanding of Truth-Claims and the Need for (Not) Combatting Misinformation," The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, , vol. 700(1), pages 112-123, March.

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