Why Does Debating Bad Ideas Make Them Stronger?
The Hidden Dangers of Debate: Why It Can Legitimize Bad Ideas
In this episode of PsyberSpace®, host Leslie Poston explores the unintended consequences of debate formats in media, arguing that they often function as tools to distribute and legitimize harmful ideas rather than dismantling them with facts. Poston discusses psychological principles such as social proof, the illusory truth effect, and the continued influence effect to explain why debates can amplify bad ideas. She advocates for alternative approaches such as weight of evidence framing, pre-bunking tactics, and audience-centered harm reduction to effectively combat misinformation and reduce harm.
00:00 Introduction to Debate Content
01:14 The Unseen Consequences of Debates
02:06 The Psychology Behind Debate Failures
04:13 False Balance in Media
05:44 The Illusory Truth Effect
07:43 Debate as Entertainment
09:38 Incentives and Bad Faith Tactics
14:13 Strategies for Harm Reduction
16:20 Practical Tips for Responding to Misinformation
18:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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In this episode of PsyberSpace®, host Leslie Poston explores the unintended consequences of debate formats in media, arguing that they often function as tools to distribute and legitimize harmful ideas rather than dismantling them with facts. Poston discusses psychological principles such as social proof, the illusory truth effect, and the continued influence effect to explain why debates can amplify bad ideas. She advocates for alternative approaches such as weight of evidence framing, pre-bunking tactics, and audience-centered harm reduction to effectively combat misinformation and reduce harm.
00:00 Introduction to Debate Content
01:14 The Unseen Consequences of Debates
02:06 The Psychology Behind Debate Failures
04:13 False Balance in Media
05:44 The Illusory Truth Effect
07:43 Debate as Entertainment
09:38 Incentives and Bad Faith Tactics
14:13 Strategies for Harm Reduction
16:20 Practical Tips for Responding to Misinformation
18:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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