Sorting fact from fiction in a post-truth world

When social media micro-targeting is shaping political views and 'alternative facts' abound, is there any hope for democracy? Cognitive psychologist Professor Stephan Lewandowsky explains why we still believe something to be true, even after we have been told it is not, and why we are all so willing to believe what we read - including fake news. In our post-truth era he suggests we all need to become a little more cynical, to ward off misinformation and guard against its potential to manipulate. Episode recorded: March 26, 2018 Interviewer: Dr Andi Horvath Producers: Chris Hatzis, Dr Andi Horvath Engineer and editor: Chris Hatzis Banner image: Getty Images

Om Podcasten

Overhear researchers talk about what they do and why they do it. Hear them obsess, confess and profess - changing the world one experiment, one paper and one interview at a time. Listen in as seasoned eavesdropper Chris Hatzis follows reporters Dr Andi Horvath and Steve Grimwade on their meetings with magnificent minds. Made possible by the University of Melbourne.