SAC hosted a talk with Dr. David Myers, who shared helpful data and research related to the psychology behind the pervasiveness of misinformation & disinformation.
The oft’ quoted proverb goes: a lie is halfway around the world before truth has got its boots on, and this rings truer than ever in the age of the internet. To be effective leaders and engaged citizens, we need to be savvy consumers and communicators of information. In his presentation to our Student Advisory Council, Dr. Myers shared 10 examples of widespread beliefs that are not backed by factual data and he offered insight into why most people are inclined to believe misinformation/disinformation. It was alarming to consider that it is easier to get someone to believe a falsehood than it is to get them to give up a false belief, even when they encounter proof that it is false.
Given our increasingly polarized socio-political climate where the majority of Americans communicate in echo chambers, the ability to discern and deflect falsehoods is vital. Dr. Myers shared some valuable tools for engaging others with humility and civility, and we’re so grateful for the opportunity to learn from his wisdom and experience!
Dr. Myers is one of the most influential Psychologists today, and his Psychology and Social Psychology textbooks are widely used by colleges and universities (and are the most commonly cited sources by students of Psychology!) He’s authored over 450 essays in addition to curriculum, and has conducted scientific research on human happiness, faith, and interpersonal relationships. His latest book is called “How Do We Know Ourselves?: Curiosities and Marvels of the Human Mind.”
Dr. Myers shares his expertise as an educator and public speaker; he’s been a professor at Hope College for over 50 years and continues to actively research and teach at the age of 82. He’s advocated widely for the adoption of hearing loop technology for those with hearing loss and is on the Accessibility Committee at Hope Church, where he also contributes regularly to the Adult Education Program.
The David and Carol Myers Foundation has supported CultureWorks since 2023, and we’re so grateful for the ways in which their family impacts our community by generously sharing their work, wealth, and expertise.
