The spread of conspiracy theories and harmful misinformation is a defining characteristic of the COVID-19 pandemic. It has led to deaths, financial loss, increased stigma, health policy challenges, and added to the chaotic information environment. We must counter this “infodemic” with evidence-based communication strategies. Despite concerns about the “backfire effect” debunking does work, if done well! In this presentation, Caulfield will look at what the science says about fighting misinformation and how we can all get involved in the battle against bunk.

Timothy Caulfield is a Canada Research Chair in Health Law and Policy, a Professor in the Faculty of Law and the School of Public Health, and Research Director of the Health Law Institute at the University of Alberta.

This talk took place on Thursday, December 17th, 2020 and was part of Skeptical Inquirer presents. Learn more at skepticalinquirer.org/presents