Five Tips To Avoid Falling Victim To Misinformation

Nowadays, people want to stay busy and entertained. We are in a paradox, because in the past there was a time when we did not have as many distractions as now. But always being entertained has consequences, such as falling victim to misinformation.

We have never received as much information as we do nowadays. There is information wherever we look, but much of it is false or distorted.

Misinformation can have serious consequences, especially in politics. Mainly during election campaigns, there is a lot of misinformation about sensitive topics, and many sympathize with, or become indifferent to, the environment. This is a strategy.

So what can you do to avoid falling victim to misinformation?

1. Filter your thoughts

Train your consciousness to decide what is worth knowing. You like baseball, for example, but you do not think much about it. Try to define what you  need  to know, not what you  want to  know. 

You need to know things that affect you directly. If you want to combat misinformation, you need to prioritize these topics. Otherwise, you will be wasting your time on irrelevant, but interesting, information.

2. Filter your sources to avoid falling victim to misinformation

This is one of the most effective ways to avoid falling victim to misinformation. Nowadays, it is more important who  says something, than what  is said. Anyone can spread false statements that go viral, and end up believing that it is true. 

Choose your sources carefully. Sources should be responsible. You do not have to follow only major media sources, although they may also misinform you. Only choose websites with a good reputation. These sources are not infallible, but they are more responsible for what is said. This is the best way to avoid being scammed.

3. Read books to avoid falling victim to misinformation

Most often, books are credible. Writing a book is harder than spreading rumors on social media. It takes a lot more work. You should also keep in mind that an editorial team has published it.

Books are good sources of information, especially on controversial topics. Authors with professional careers or literary recognition can write the best books. Books can give you something other than information: they help you form your own opinion.

Use your critical thinking

Criticism is not really about pointing out the negative things about something or someone. Criticism is about assessing information and developing your critical thinking. The best way to do this is to have certain criteria and not believe everything you hear.

Think about the motives behind the information you receive. Maybe they are trying to impress you or change your worldview. Are their arguments valid, or are they based only on weak and isolated evidence? Being skeptical helps you develop critical thinking. 

5. Cultivate your consciousness

Some people tend not to want you to know anything. Sometimes you just want to be entertained and do whatever requires the least thought.

It’s unhealthy. Even if you do not have to live worried about everything, or be too self-conscious, you need to find a balance. Cultivate your consciousness to focus on what really matters, and stop wasting your time on unimportant things.

Do not fall victim to misinformation. You will lose your freedom, as well as the chance to have a fluid and determined mind. Therefore, you need to filter the information. This allows you to raise your awareness and make better choices.