Digital Distortions

This episode examines how misinformation and distrust are amplified in the digital age, particularly concerning scientific information. It highlights systemic incentives, such as clickbait economics, that prioritize sensationalism over accuracy, leading to oversimplified narratives and misinformed choices about health. The episode also discusses the quantity manipulation paradox, where the sheer volume of false claims creates confusion, and the search engine paradox, where independent online research can paradoxically increase belief in falsehoods. Finally, a case study on "Post-Vaccination Syndrome" illustrates how preliminary scientific findings can be distorted by sensational media coverage and social media virality, eroding public trust in legitimate science.