The hottest Misinformation Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Health Politics Topics
Independent SAGE continues 399 implied HN points 13 Jun 24
  1. In the UK, the announcement for the autumn vaccine campaign is delayed, leaving many unsure about what vaccines will be available. Countries often announce their plans earlier, which could affect the procurement process.
  2. There are new vaccines on the horizon, including a two-in-one shot for both flu and COVID-19. While this is exciting, it won't be available until at least 2025 or 2026.
  3. Vaccination uptake is a big concern as many people, especially in certain ethnic minorities, aren't getting vaccinated. Misinformation can heavily influence people's choices, which is why easy access to vaccines is really important.
Independent SAGE continues 539 implied HN points 20 May 24
  1. The WHO pandemic treaty is important for better international cooperation during pandemics. Countries need to work together to be better prepared and respond to future health crises.
  2. There is a lot of misinformation about the treaty, particularly claims about losing control to WHO. In reality, the treaty aims to respect each country's sovereignty while improving global health collaboration.
  3. Strong leadership and understanding are necessary to combat disinformation. Governments must focus on making effective agreements for global health, ensuring everyone is better protected next time a pandemic strikes.
Your Local Epidemiologist 1105 implied HN points 30 Oct 24
  1. Check the basic logic of claims before sharing. If something sounds outrageous, take a moment to think it through.
  2. Follow the money behind the claims you see. If someone profits from spreading a story, be cautious about believing it.
  3. Stay skeptical and ask questions. The more you look into a claim, the better you'll understand its truth.
Alexander News Network -Dr. Paul Elias Alexander's substack 1415 implied HN points 10 Jan 24
  1. There were lies about asymptomatic spread of COVID-19.
  2. False claims were made about the effectiveness of masks in preventing transmission.
  3. The safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines were questioned.
Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality 261 implied HN points 08 Nov 24
  1. There is a question about whether people supported Trump because they wanted to believe false information, or if they believed false information because they supported Trump. It's a bit of a chicken-and-egg situation.
  2. Misinformation has a strong influence on voters, making it hard to trust what is said by those who oppose it. This makes it challenging for others to communicate different perspectives effectively.
  3. To make progress, some Republicans who want change may need to find ways to help their supporters understand the truth and make better choices about who to trust.
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The DisInformation Chronicle 225 implied HN points 05 Nov 24
  1. When following election coverage, it's important to read from a variety of sources to get a balanced view. This helps you avoid bias and misinformation.
  2. Be careful with fact-checkers and mainstream media, as they may not always provide accurate or objective information. It's good to question what you hear.
  3. Alternative media can also be misleading, so approach it with caution. Look for trustworthy sources to get the truth.
Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality 207 implied HN points 11 Nov 24
  1. Many Trump supporters are good-hearted people who genuinely worry about the country's direction. They voted for him not out of hate, but because they care.
  2. There is a serious problem when a large portion of the public prefers misinformation. It makes it hard for democracy to thrive if people choose not to believe the facts.
  3. Democrats may struggle to connect with those who need to hear their messages. Republicans are encouraged to take responsibility in educating their supporters about the truth.
Alexander News Network -Dr. Paul Elias Alexander's substack 884 implied HN points 11 Feb 24
  1. There is an effort to nullify voices of scientists and doctors who oppose mRNA technology and vaccines, attempting to make them change their stance.
  2. Insiders are suggesting a move to persuade high-ranking anti-mRNA voices to soften their language and reports to prepare the public for acceptance of mRNA technology.
  3. Be cautious of potential infiltration by individuals admired and followed in the areas of mRNA technology and vaccines, as there may be attempts to misdirect and sway public opinion.
Your Local Epidemiologist 904 implied HN points 09 Oct 24
  1. It's important to separate facts from opinions when discussing science and policy. Confusing the two can lead to mistrust in both.
  2. Values play a big role in public health decisions, and people often disagree on what should take priority, like saving lives versus personal freedom.
  3. We need clear and honest communication about scientific uncertainty. People want to understand evolving data, not just fixed facts.
Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends 618 implied HN points 14 Mar 24
  1. Mainstreaming of trafficking myths linked to QAnon by concerned moms has increased during the pandemic
  2. Misinformation about trafficking and its portrayal in online narratives can be harmful and misdirect resources
  3. Trafficking victims are often marginalized or vulnerable, and trafficking is not limited to just sex trafficking
Unmasked 79 implied HN points 12 Dec 24
  1. There is no solid evidence showing that wearing masks helps stop the spread of respiratory viruses like COVID-19. Many studies from before 2020 found that masks are not effective.
  2. Despite the lack of evidence, some people continue to insist that more masking would have made a difference during the pandemic.
  3. It's important to recognize that a lot of the information about masks has been based on political beliefs rather than scientific facts.
Unmasked 62 implied HN points 17 Dec 24
  1. A new study funded by the CDC shows that some vaccinated children may actually be more likely to get COVID. This surprises many who thought the vaccines would fully protect them.
  2. Many countries in Europe did not recommend COVID vaccines for children, raising questions about their necessity and safety in the U.S.
  3. There's a growing distrust in public health guidelines as experts appear to have given mixed messages on vaccines and their effectiveness.
Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality 76 implied HN points 22 Nov 24
  1. Real wages for non-managerial workers are growing stronger now than in the past due to a tight labor market. This growth has continued despite challenges like the pandemic and inflation.
  2. Media sources greatly influence people's opinions and political views, creating a divide in beliefs. Many Americans see their reality differently based on their news consumption.
  3. There are different kinds of populist leaders, but not all fit neatly into traditional categories. The motivations behind their actions can vary widely, affecting how they connect with their supporters.
After Babel 1118 implied HN points 03 Jan 24
  1. Researchers should stop using the Global Burden of Disease study for analyzing mental health trends.
  2. The youth mental health crisis is not just limited to America, but is an international issue in many Western countries with high levels of smartphone adoption.
  3. The Global Burden of Disease study underestimates changes in mental health statistics since 2010, especially in depression, self-harm, and suicide rates.
Unmoderated Insights 59 implied HN points 17 Jul 24
  1. Political polarization is growing, and it's leading to more violence and threats. People are starting to think that violence is a valid way to solve problems.
  2. Researching misinformation has become dangerous for some scientists. They face threats just for studying and sharing information about it.
  3. The environment around political debates is getting more heated, affecting everyday people who aren't even involved in politics. They can easily become targets just because of their work.
The DisInformation Chronicle 815 implied HN points 31 Jan 24
  1. COVID Inquiry in the UK highlights failures of lockdown policies and issues with government advisors
  2. Top government advisors criticized media for promoting harmful COVID misinformation
  3. Journalists pointed out contradictions in the statements of government advisors during the inquiry
The DisInformation Chronicle 670 implied HN points 22 Feb 24
  1. Misinformation researcher Sander van der Linden was caught lying and spreading misinformation, tarnishing his credibility.
  2. The incident sheds light on the concern that 'misinformation research' might be used for political purposes to silence dissent on controversial topics.
  3. Van der Linden's behavior on social media and Wikipedia highlights potential manipulation to create a false image of credibility and promote personal research.
The Honest Broker Newsletter 1707 implied HN points 21 Jun 23
  1. Misinformation in climate science is a significant issue, especially due to outdated climate scenarios like RCP8.5 and RCP4.5.
  2. Scientific integrity is crucial to uphold in producing accurate information for policy-making.
  3. Financial conflicts of interest can complicate expertise, leading to the perpetuation of misinformation.
Singal-Minded 1623 implied HN points 15 Jun 23
  1. The American Medical Association and Endocrine Society's statement on youth gender medicine is filled with misinformation and non sequiturs.
  2. There are concerns about the lack of rigorous research supporting the use of puberty blockers in youth gender medicine.
  3. Major medical organizations have been criticized for spreading misinformation on sensitive and politicized topics, leading to questions about their trustworthiness.
Science Forever 557 implied HN points 20 Apr 23
  1. Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo used an altered study to support his views on COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, but the data he referred to did not compare the vaccine risks to the risks of COVID-19.
  2. Challenging scientific consensus should go through established processes like peer review, not by omitting data or spreading misinformation in op-eds and white papers.
  3. The scientific community needs to find ways to counter anti-science movements that exploit confusion and established processes to push political agendas.
Your Local Epidemiologist 1594 implied HN points 27 Jun 23
  1. Harassment against scientists, including stalking, bullying, and threats, has become a common and serious issue online and offline.
  2. Many scientists, both male and female, have reported experiencing harassment, threats, and emotional stress, particularly women in the field.
  3. The high levels of harassment and threats have led to many scientists withdrawing from social media and public engagement, creating a gap in scientific communication and community trust.
The DisInformation Chronicle 405 implied HN points 01 Mar 24
  1. The COVID pandemic exposed flaws in science writing, with inaccurate reporting on various issues like vaccines, masks, and the origin of the virus.
  2. It is crucial to distinguish between science writing and journalism, as science writers often rely on experts' opinions without conducting investigative reporting.
  3. The case of Jon Cohen, labeled 'Crooked Cohen,' showcases a prime example of misleading pandemic science writing, emphasizing the importance of accurate and unbiased reporting.
Unmasked 75 implied HN points 12 Oct 24
  1. Mask mandates are returning in some areas, like California, as winter approaches. This has happened repeatedly since 2020.
  2. There is a belief that these mask mandates have failed to prevent illness in the past. Many are questioning why they are being reinstated again.
  3. Some people feel that there is a lot of misinformation surrounding the mask policies and the studies supporting them. This creates confusion about their actual effectiveness.
Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality 361 implied HN points 14 Mar 24
  1. Having neighbors who vote for Donald Trump could lead to a higher chance of dying from the Covid Plague.
  2. The difference in Covid outcomes between counties may not be due to behavioral factors, but rather to vaccination rates influenced by political views.
  3. Vaccination rates seem to be linked to political figures like Donald Trump, showing how politics can impact public health.
Your Local Epidemiologist 1281 implied HN points 20 Jun 23
  1. Debating vaccine science can create false equivalence and be time-consuming and dangerous.
  2. Live debates can prioritize charm over data and lead to logical fallacies and dead-end discussions.
  3. Some debates are worthwhile when participants are open to changing their minds and when the subject matter is not politically or religiously polarized.
Unreported Truths 136 implied HN points 11 Nov 24
  1. Some independent journalists are questioning the effectiveness of Covid mRNA vaccines. They believe these shots did not perform as promised.
  2. There are concerns about potential side effects and the impact of these vaccines on the immune system. People worry about the long-term consequences.
  3. Many mainstream media outlets are not discussing these issues, leaving it to a few independent voices to bring attention to the truths about the Covid vaccines.
OK Doomer 34 implied HN points 17 Nov 24
  1. The CDC has not recommended N95 respirators for healthcare, which many experts believe is a mistake. This decision could put people’s health at risk during airborne illness outbreaks.
  2. A key committee at the CDC seems to have ignored advice from experts in aerosols and has not been listening to public health concerns. This lack of attention to scientific evidence is worrying.
  3. Only one member from the committee stood up for N95 masks during the meeting, highlighting a lack of support for stronger protective measures. It's important for health decisions to be made based on science and safety.
Unmoderated Insights 39 implied HN points 14 Jun 24
  1. The Stanford Internet Observatory did important work to study online abuse and misinformation, helping inform lawmakers and create tools for research.
  2. Unfortunately, it closed after facing legal troubles, which affected its ability to continue funding and operations.
  3. Despite the closure, some projects and research from the Observatory are being handed over to other organizations to keep the work going.
Unmasked 58 implied HN points 09 Oct 24
  1. A recent study that supported mask-wearing has been proven wrong. This adds to the ongoing debate about the effectiveness of masks.
  2. Some people believe that experts used misleading information to support their views on mask mandates, especially for children.
  3. There's a growing concern that some mask policies may have hurt kids more than helped them, highlighting a need to rethink health measures.
Oliver Bateman Does the Work 157 implied HN points 26 Jan 24
  1. Misinformation online can be rampant and dangerous, especially when created by exploiting the absence of accurate information.
  2. AI-generated content is becoming more prevalent, but it often sacrifices accuracy for speed and efficiency.
  3. Access to reliable information may become a privilege, leading to an information divide between those who can afford it and those who can't.
The DisInformation Chronicle 715 implied HN points 02 Jun 23
  1. NIH scientist testified on the importance of natural immunity after COVID infection
  2. Many countries outside the US acknowledged natural immunity but America hasn't
  3. Public trust in science has declined due to reasons like censorship and conflicts of interest
The End(s) of Argument 59 implied HN points 02 May 24
  1. People may misrepresent evidence to support their claims by portraying it as reasonable.
  2. Misinformation can have a significant impact by influencing public perception and shaping what is considered reasonable.
  3. Maintaining reasonableness in arguments requires honest representation of evidence and adherence to norms to keep the license of reasonableness intact.