“Misinformation” isn’t real? Come again!
A content creator, whose videos I watched a year ago claimed, “There is no such thing as misinformation, only information!” But what about information maliciously crafted to mislead, like an evil scheme designed to send someone off a cliff? Can we even call it just “direction,” or is it what we always called it: “misdirection through misinformation?”
Sure, the “mis” prefix depends on context . What was valid decades ago might not be today, and real-time data can lose relevance in seconds. As mentioned earlier, not all invalid information is malicious; some is simply outdated or incorrect. Still, many digital creators prioritize traction over [sometimes easily-remedied] accuracy, excusing [mis]takes with, “No harm done.”
I’ll keep adhering to the idea of “misinformation” while staying mindful of sources. Discernment is crucial for me: I cross-check ostentatious or dramatic claims with online searches, trusted [offline]friends, or professionals with at least some references, before relying on them. Especially for important decisions about health or well-being. Social media “experts” alone aren’t enough.
No information is infallible; even professionals err. But confronting hyped claims, questioning deeply, and habitually, understanding platforms, and recognizing motivations, help me to identify reliable, usable information.
The takeaway? Claiming “there’s no such thing as misinformation” is, ironically, misinformation itself.
Laters!
Love, Matt
2024 12 27
If you wish to donate money to me, drop a comment, or unleash scathing criticism about my views on “misinformation,” send an email to matt@mattlr.com.
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This post is not meant to be an exhaustive discussion about misinformation. This is about opening up a discussion – Thinking, sharing, and indulging in a bit of philosophy. What is your take on misinformation, and exploring other stuff that you reckon might make things easier for your reality? Send me a summary of your story, and maybe I could comment on your example of how we navigate through life, by doing the best we can to make it meaningful, joyful, and nourishing for ourselves.
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