Authors
Adam M Enders, Joseph E Uscinski, Casey Klofstad, Justin Stoler
Publication date
2020
Journal
The Harvard Kennedy School Misinformation Review
Publisher
Shorenstein Center for Media, Politics and Public Policy, at Harvard University, John F. Kennedy School of Government
Description
As the COVID-19 pandemic progresses, an understanding of the structure and organization of beliefs in pandemic conspiracy theories and misinformation becomes increasingly critical for addressing the threat posed by these dubious ideas. In polling Americans about beliefs in 11 such ideas, we observed clear groupings of beliefs that correspond with different individual-level characteristics (e.g., support for Trump, distrust of scientists) and behavioral intentions (e.g., to take a vaccine, to engage in social activities). Moreover, we found that conspiracy theories enjoy more support, on average, than misinformation about dangerous health practices. Our findings suggest several paths for policymakers, communicators, and scientists to minimize the spread and impact of COVID-19 misinformation and conspiracy theories.
Total citations
20202021202220232024145796130
Scholar articles
AM Enders, JE Uscinski, C Klofstad, J Stoler - The Harvard Kennedy School Misinformation Review, 2020