How Effective Are Interventions Against Misinformation?

The way a problem is framed shapes its solutions. This article reframes the problemof misinformation and examines the implications of this shift for interventions againstmisinformation. It advances five arguments that challenge common narratives aboutmisinformation and invite us to rethink both the problem and its solutions. For instance,exposure to misinformation is lower than often believed, people are less gullible thancommonly assumed, and misinformation often reflects, rather than causes, underlyingsociopolitical issues. These insights point toward strategies that address the root causesof the problem rather than surface symptoms. Key shifts include focusing on the demandfor misinformation, fostering trust in reliable sources, and strengthening democraticinstitutions. Combating misinformation effectively requires a clear understanding of theproblem and a break with popular misconceptions about it.