Recognising and coping with misinformation and disinformation

A healthy scepticism and critical thinking are often required by decision makers and the professionals who advise them. Groupthink, bias, misinformation and exaggerated, distorted and defensive positions abound. Claims and expectations must often be discounted, and data disaggregated to discern meaning. Misinformation and disinformation represent the top ‘two-year’ risk in terms of severity of impact in the World Economic Forum’s 2024 Global Risks Report. They are especially widespread in relation to environmental externalities and climate change, where a scientific consensus suggests action is urgently needed. This article covers their recognition and strategies and tactics that special and vested interests employ to delay required environmental action. They include shifting or repositioning the spotlight. Other areas covered include recognising changing opinions, fragmentation and polarisation of views, embracing responsible leadership, countering fake news and delaying tactics, changing internal practices and collaboration and collective action. In many contexts and for the future of humanity, thinking and responsible decision makers who exercise independent judgement and provide challenge might represent a last and critical line of defence. Coping with misinformation and disinformation is especially important for the professionals upon whose advice and counsel they depend.