The hottest Misinformation Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Health Politics Topics

Science, Policy, and Values

Your Local Epidemiologist • 904 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination Misinformation Policy decisions Trust Issues
  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.

"This can happen to you"

Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends • 618 implied HN points • 14 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conspiracy Theories Misinformation Legislation Immigration Social media
  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

Wikipedia’s Islamist Vandals

American Dreaming • 616 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Misinformation Media influence Historical revisionism Activism
  1. A group of editors has been manipulating Wikipedia pages to make certain groups look better and downplay unpleasant truths, especially regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict.
  2. One major focus of these edits was Hajj Amin al-Husseini, a controversial figure who collaborated with Nazi Germany, with efforts made to hide his negative actions in historical records.
  3. This manipulation of information on Wikipedia shows how easily facts can be distorted online, raising concerns about the reliability of what people read about important historical events.
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Inaccurate Study Claims More Masking Would Have Stopped COVID

Unmasked • 79 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health COVID-19 Mask Mandates Misinformation Policy Analysis
  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.

Misinformation isn't actually the problem

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 499 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Misinformation Political Discourse Media Critique Election Issues
  1. We often mix up different types of information, treating small issues as serious threats. This can confuse people about what really matters.
  2. Instead of just blaming misinformation, we should look at how we compare different topics. Some things shouldn't get the same level of attention.
  3. The real problem isn't just fake news; it's the way we discuss all these issues and the weight we give them in public conversations.

New CDC-Funded Study Finds Some Vaccinated Children More Likely To Get COVID

Unmasked • 62 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines COVID-19 Misinformation
  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.

old media vs new model mockery

bad cattitude • 245 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Critique Journalism Political Commentary Public Discourse Misinformation
  1. Old media often claims that only they can do real journalism and dismisses new media like bloggers and podcasters. They feel threatened as their traditional control on information is challenged.
  2. A recent interview showcased how traditional journalists might not fact-check properly, leading to humorous and embarrassing situations. This shows that not all media is trustworthy.
  3. Many stories shared by the media can create unnecessary fear and panic, especially during health crises. It's important to question the validity of these narratives and the reasons behind them.

Save Democracy From Informed Citizens: Vote Censorship!

The DisInformation Chronicle • 385 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Misinformation Media Free speech Censorship
  1. Media organizations are teaming up to push narratives that silence critics of politicians. This raises concerns about free speech in a democratic society.
  2. YouTube and other platforms are being pressured to remove content labeled as misinformation, often targeting conservative voices. This suggests a targeted effort to control the information available to the public.
  3. There is increasing scrutiny and criticism of social media platforms like Twitter for their handling of misinformation, particularly as they relate to upcoming elections. This scrutiny often coincides with efforts to diminish the reach of certain viewpoints.

Taxpayer Funded Censorship: How Government is Using Your Tax Dollars to Silence Your Voice

OpenTheBooks Substack • 349 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship Misinformation Government spending Public Health Free speech
  1. A huge amount of taxpayer money, over $127 million, went to studying and fighting COVID-related misinformation. Much of this funding was aimed at promoting public health recommendations.
  2. The government has been closely working with social media companies to tag and remove content labeled as misinformation, raising concerns about free speech and trust in scientific advice.
  3. There are worries that the government’s approach to dealing with misinformation could be biased, leading to silencing dissenting voices and further eroding public faith in authorities.

The Youth Mental Health Crisis is International, Unless You Rely on a Flawed International Dataset

After Babel • 1118 implied HN points • 03 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Data Analysis Youth Trends Misinformation
  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.

How Polarization is Turning Disagreement into Danger

Unmoderated Insights • 59 implied HN points • 17 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political violence Polarization Misinformation Public Safety Radicalization
  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.

Imported Doubt: How RFK Jr. Spearheaded a Disinformation Campaign that Left Samoa's Children Exposed (Pt. 1)

Off-Topic • 209 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination policy Public Health Misinformation Epidemiology Health Advocacy
  1. In 2019, Samoa experienced serious measles outbreaks, affecting many kids and even leading to deaths. This situation showed how important vaccines are for preventing disease.
  2. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has played a big role in spreading misinformation about vaccines. His actions contributed to fears that led to lower vaccination rates in places like Samoa.
  3. The disinformation campaign not only put lives at risk but also highlighted the influence of individuals spreading doubt about vaccines, showing how public health can be harmed by such claims.

DRAFT: A Very Peculiar Kind of Triumph of the Will Indeed

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 261 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Misinformation Political Behavior Party Dynamics
  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.

The FL vaccine study used by the surgeon general was altered

Science Forever • 557 implied HN points • 20 Apr 23
🏥 Health Politics COVID-19 Vaccines Misinformation Public Health
  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.

Dazed and Confused: Getting the Most out of Election Day Coverage

The DisInformation Chronicle • 225 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Misinformation Political Trust Public Opinion
  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.

"You are being misinformed"

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 1707 implied HN points • 21 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Climate Science Congress Scientific Integrity Misinformation
  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.

PROJECT SYNDICATE: Misinformation Decided the U.S. Election

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 207 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Misinformation Political Behavior Public Opinion Governance
  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.

Harassment against scientists is out of control

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1594 implied HN points • 27 Jun 23
🏥 Health Politics Misinformation Public Health Gender differences Online Harassment
  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 Republican-Legislator Misinformation Meltdown of December 2024

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 146 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Legislation Politicians Misinformation Media
  1. Misinformation can create chaos in government, as seen with recent events involving political leaders and social media. It shows how easily people can be influenced by false information.
  2. The compromise spending bill before a potential government shutdown highlights how partisan tensions can escalate quickly, especially with external influences like Elon Musk's comments.
  3. Despite the turmoil, there's a possibility of avoiding a government shutdown, but the situation reveals deeper issues about leadership and decision-making within the government.

Do You Want Alex Joneses? Because That’s How You Get Alex Joneses

Singal-Minded • 1623 implied HN points • 15 Jun 23
🏥 Health Politics Youth Gender Medicine Medical Research Misinformation
  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.

COVID Inquiry Finds Lockdowns Were Terrible, While Reporters Call Bullshit on Government’s Lead Academic Advisor

The DisInformation Chronicle • 815 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🏥 Health Politics Covid response Misinformation Media influence
  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

Misinformation Researcher Sander van der Linden Caught Lying and Spreading Misinformation

The DisInformation Chronicle • 670 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Misinformation Research Academia Controversies Propaganda
  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 Endless Cycle Of Insanity Continues: Mask Mandates Are Back Again

Unmasked • 75 implied HN points • 12 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Policies COVID-19 Government Response Misinformation
  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.

When (and how) do we debate vaccine science?

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1281 implied HN points • 20 Jun 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Debates Misinformation Empathy Communication
  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.

Now it can be told: the truth about the Covid jabs is slowly coming out

Unreported Truths • 136 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Pandemic response Misinformation Medical Ethics
  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.

Who Needs RFK Jr. When We've Already Got a Corrupt CDC?

OK Doomer • 34 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Healthcare policy Misinformation
  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.

Fixing the Web without the Stanford Internet Observatory?

Unmoderated Insights • 39 implied HN points • 14 Jun 24
🕹 Technology Misinformation Public Policy Social media Child safety
  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.

Another Pro-Mask Study Has Just Been Debunked

Unmasked • 58 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Misinformation Child welfare
  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.

The Work of the Truth

Oliver Bateman Does the Work • 157 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
📰 News Misinformation AI Journalism Internet Content creation
  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.

Bike lock agitators and the license of reasonableness

The End(s) of Argument • 59 implied HN points • 02 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Misinformation Protests Evidence
  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.

They Called Him “Crooked Cohen”

The DisInformation Chronicle • 405 implied HN points • 01 Mar 24
📰 News Misinformation Journalism Pandemic Science Writing
  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.

Is the impact of generative AI on elections overblown?

Unmoderated Insights • 4 HN points • 03 Sep 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Misinformation Media Technology Governance
  1. Many claims about AI messing up elections are being exaggerated. So far, real events have had a bigger impact than AI-generated content.
  2. Misinformation isn't new, but AI makes it easier to create and share harmful content quickly. The real issue lies in how platforms handle this content.
  3. Companies should improve their systems to control harmful content and support election integrity. It's not just about AI—it’s also about the responsibility of social media platforms.