On skepticism.
Do you think it harder to be skeptical in the information age?
I am quite literally holding the potential to access the entirety of human knowledge in my hands. I can, by merely voicing the request, learn anything that has ever been written on any topic in any discipline of knowledge.
However, at the same time, I can choose to read any myth, falsehood, or error that has ever been recorded. Almost any false claim that has ever been presented can easily worm its way into the search results.
Some of those falsehoods are presented in a pretty convincing manner and even be accompanied by supporting evidence comprised of verifiable facts which superficially, at least, seem to prove false conclusions. In many cases, pseudo science is presented in credible formats which seem to lend them credibility. There are even publications that appear as legitimate scientific journals that accept payment in order to publish whatever content one cares to present. Lies and fraudulent data is being released faster than anyone can hope to verify it.
How can we step up skepticism to keep up with the constant flood of misinformation?
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I read Skeptic magazine to hone my critical thinking skills and keep abreast of the ways in which we can be mislead. I also consider how much time I want to spend on verifying a particular piece of advice or idea. I ask, "What are the consequences to me and my world if it's true or not true?" If the consequences are minimal, I walk away. Selfish? Yes. Some things just aren't worth the debates.
pixiedust
Level 8
June 4, 2018
1
For the very reasons you name I actually find it easier to be skeptical. I am painfully aware we are living in a tribal post-truth society with a woefully inadequate educational system. For example, for the most part, it seems that the Theory of Evolution is not even taught in most schools because teachers want to avoid the whole political/religious controversy. Consequently, most of the questions I read about evolution display an almost total lack of knowledge about the science so that it is even difficult to answer the questions.
Heraclitus
Level 8
June 4, 2018
2
No. I find it all the more important to be skeptical and discerning with the information I encounter.
evidentialist
Level 8
June 4, 2018
4
A broad ranging, internally consistent worldview, based in verifiable science and scientific philosophy can help a person to spot anomalies by “smell”. Developing a habit of deep vetting of all new information, and review of old information taken in before the vetting practice began, is essential. We don’t really have to be more skeptical; we just have to be more skilled at it.
skado
Level 9
June 4, 2018
4
Don't confuse information with knowledge. Or wisdom.
Mitch07102
Level 8
June 4, 2018
1
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