Misinformation and Disinformation: What do we know and what can we do?

Porismita Borah (PhD, University of Wisconsin-Madison) is the Lester M. Smith Distinguished Professor at the Edward R. Murrow College of Communication and a graduate faculty in the Prevention Science program at Washington State University. Borah primarily studies discourses on digital platforms as well as message effects in the context of both politics and health. Borah's most recent work focuses on problematic information including mis/disinformation, hate speech, and incivility.

This talk will explore the various ways in which misinformation and disinformation spread, examining the channels and methods that contribute to their proliferation. We will delve into the consequences of being exposed to false information, including how it impacts individuals and society as a whole. The discussion will also address the reasons why people are susceptible to believing in misinformation, highlighting psychological and social factors that play a role. Finally, we will consider strategies and actions that can be taken to combat the spread of misinformation, empowering individuals and communities to better navigate the information landscape.