Bad actors and misguided readers on social media platforms are actively spreading misinformation, from anti-science to outright climate denial. And we are committed to fighting it.
But we can't do it alone. We need your help to not let misinformation block progress.
How, you ask? It's as simple as talking to family and friends and making sure they are prepared with the facts.
1. Choose your battles.
Not everyone is open to changing their mind, and frankly, not everyone is worth your time. That’s why it’s better to focus your energy on your friends and family rather than an online stranger. And consider the definition: Some people shut down if called out in public—so know your audience.
Try this: Consider your potential to make an impact before engaging with a friend or family member. And speak to them gently, privately, so it doesn't feel like an attack.
2. The strength of your relationship matters.
It's much easier to listen to someone you know and trust – someone who has already shown they care about you. It's also easier to connect with someone you've shared experiences with.
Try this: Start by telling them how much you value your relationship. Maybe even bring up a shared memory to remind them (and you) that you care about them.
3. Understand their motivation before focusing on content.
When someone shares a piece of “fake news,” it’s usually driven by confirmation bias: They already believe in the worldview the content supports, so they may think it helps explain who they are. Now imagine how you would feel if someone questioned your worldview.
Try this: Accept that neither of you wants to be fooled by “fake news,” that it’s happening on everyone’s feeds, and that you’re both looking for sources you can trust.
4. Engage in a dialogue, not a lecture.
To get anywhere, you have to treat them as equals. Acting as if you are right and they are wrong will only reinforce their views and push you further away.
Try this: Offer to trade resources. For every one of their resources you read, they should read one of yours.
5. Show empathy.
People who share misinformation are likely to feel scared or out of control. That’s why misinformation thrives during times of civil unrest and pandemics. So show kindness instead of anger. Ask questions about how they’re feeling — and acknowledge their answers. When we feel seen, heard, and understood, we’re much more willing to open our hearts and minds.
Try this: Find common ground. Whether you both care about keeping your families safe or want to breathe clean air, start with a basic perspective that you know you share and build from there.
6. Remember, change is hard!
Don't expect someone to change after one or even a few discussions. Human behavior is difficult to change, so the most achievable goal is to make sure you maintain an open line of communication with this person. Focus on those who matter to you and practice open-minded discussions about misinformation instead of arguments.
Try this: Set a time limit on how long your discussions last, but do them more often. This will help take the anxiety out of family and friend events. And who knows? It might even strengthen your bond!
The fight against misinformation must be a coordinated, community-wide effort that allows us not only to identify anti-science “news” and outright climate lies, but also to vaccinate against its spread by ensuring that our families and friends do not fall victim to them.
Lexo here the full article published by Environmental Defense Fund