One major mistake we often make when trying to debunk some false ideas or refute outright lies is repeating the falsehood. The more people are exposed to a certain idea, piece of information, or other stimulus, the more positive attitudes they are likely to develop toward it and be influenced by it, even if it … Read more
When you’re refuting misinformation or when you’re trying to counter biased thinking and indoctrination, you normally want people to think carefully and deeply about your reasons. To increase chances of that, avoid occasions when people feel powerful because feelings of power reduce careful thinking and decrease chances that people will be persuaded by strong arguments. … Read more
When you’re trying to debunk some false claim or persuasively refute a particular argument, you’ll be more effective if you don’t present your evidence all at once. Instead, try to do it more gradually. A 2011 study found that people find evidence to be stronger when it is presented one at a time. The researchers, … Read more