So Far So Fake: The Impact of Misinformation in Today's Society

To kick off season six of Unbiased Science, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman welcome Dr. Matthew Facciani to explore the critical intersection of public health, misinformation, and artificial intelligence. The scientists examine how AI chatbots and other technologies are reshaping the landscape of health information, both positively and negatively. They discuss the growing challenges of distinguishing between misinformation and disinformation in digital spaces, particularly as these relate to public health decision-making. Throughout the conversation, the experts emphasize the vital importance of media literacy and community engagement as tools for combating false information. The episode highlights both the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advances in health communication, offering listeners insights into navigating an increasingly complex information environment.

Video available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_YjX1oz--cI

Get your copy of Dr. Facciani's book, Misguided: Where Misinformation Starts, How It Spreads, and What to Do About It on Amazon here: https://amzn.to/42b9TRk

(00:00) Intro & Welcome Back!

(03:39) Introducing Dr. Matthew Facciani

(06:28) Public Health News Briefing

(11:01) The Impact of Misinformation

(17:11) Understanding Misinformation vs. Disinformation

(21:59) Combating Misinformation: Strategies for Science Communicators

(29:55) Finding Hope in Public Health

https://matthewfacciani.substack.com/podcast

https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/08/19/opinion/vaccines-autism-evidence.html?unlocked_article_code=1.fU8.9sZk.NROYXhTXCBeG&smid=url-share

https://theunbiasedscipod.substack.com/p/how-a-government-autism-study-could

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