Project funded by the European Media and Information Fund (EMIF), 2024-2026.
More information: TBA
Research Group
Senior Research Fellow Kim Holmberg (team leader)
Senior Researcher Ashraf Maleki
Senior Research N.N.
Project Researcher N.N.
Abstract
This project tackles the pressing problem of unreliable scientific information permeating mainstream media, impacting public perception on crucial matters like public health, environmental policies, and emerging technologies. We adopt a comprehensive approach, encompassing both major news outlets and smaller professional platforms, while also examining the ripple effect of misleading stories on social media. While social media may host colorful scare stories, the enduring influence of mainstream media misrepresentations is undeniable. Instances like the autism-vaccination scare demonstrate the tangible consequences, jeopardizing public health and necessitating significant resources for mitigation. Similarly, flawed reporting on topics like climate change and COVID-19 undermines legislative action and compromises public health responses. Our project aims to gauge the prevalence of academic mis- and disinformation in mainstream media by scrutinizing representations of retracted, corrected, low-quality, and unrefereed research. By assessing public awareness and exploring potential legal or regulatory remedies, we aim to empower policymakers, journalists, educators, and the public to navigate and critique scientific reporting accurately. Special emphasis is placed on enhancing public discernment to better evaluate scientific information encountered in mainstream media.
