Navigating a post-truth society

In our current social environment, information has been unleashed to unprecedented levels. With all the good that comes of that, so too does the bad.

One of the critical issues of our time is how can we ensure that truth prevails so that the public (or politicians!) can make good decisions with the best available information?

After a brief introduction to the topic and some example cases, we’ll use a roundtable format to discuss some adventures in (mis/dis)information that have caught our own eyes and interests. We’ll also touch upon the role that scientists can or should (or should not?) play in this story.

In the second half of this two-part seminar series, we’ll identify specific issues and work toward solutions and practice putting together a strategy to combat ‘fake news’ and 'alternative facts' as members of the academic community.