Study links misinformation endorsement to symbolic strength
New research identifies a link between endorsing misinformation and prioritizing symbolic strength.
Why it matters
- People who prioritize symbolic strength are more likely to believe misinformation.
- This mindset is linked to authoritarian attitudes.
By the numbers
- Surveyed 5,535 people across eight countries.
- Symbolic strength mindset was the strongest predictor of belief in COVID-19 misinformation.
The big picture
- Endorsing misinformation can signal defiance or independence.
- This mindset can lead to belief in other conspiracies and support for authoritarianism.
What they're saying
- Commenters note that symbolic strength borrows authority from society's reliance on accurate information.
- One commenter linked to the study and summarized its findings.
Caveats
- Study conducted during the pandemic may have influenced responses.
- Findings highlight the limits of countering misinformation directly.
What’s next
- Research could explore how to effectively counter misinformation in symbolic thinkers.
- Understanding this mindset could help address the spread of misinformation.