Communicating scientific information

A recent study is among the first to make a case for confirmation bias when it comes to the spreading of scientific information—or misinformation—online.

Published by Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the study echoes studies in the Journal of Communication which finds “confirmation bias” leads people to seek out evidence— however small or poorly supported — that supports their existing personal beliefs.

Research shows that altering the way an idea is communicated—the way in which the story is told—can be useful to scientists from all disciplines hoping to better reach audiences. Using effective communications strategies is a major step forward for scientists to correct the misconceptions that continue to persist on and offline, using more effective ways to communicate their work and share their knowledge.