The Psychology of Misinformation

Through rigorous psychological research, discover a balanced view on why we believe false information and how to prevent deception.

Using humorous examples and quality research, this book offers the first comprehensive, multidisciplinary analysis of why people believe and share misinformation, and if the internet has changed things. Suitable for students and researchers in psychology, politics, international relations, and sociology, as well as policymakers and changemakers.King Charles III is Dracula's distant cousin. Governments are hiding information about UFOs. COVID-19 came from outer space. These sound like absurd statements, but some are true, and others are misinformation. But what exactly is misinformation? Who believes and spreads things that aren't true, and why? What solutions do we have available, and how well do they work? This book answers all these questions and more. Tackling the science of misinformation from its evolutionary origins to its role in the internet era, this book translates rigorous research on misleading information into a comprehensive and jargon-free explanation. Whether you are a student, researcher, policymaker, or changemaker, you will discover an easy-to-read analysis on human belief in today's world and expert advice on how to prevent deception.