Why We Believe Lies: Groupthink, Cognitive Bias, and the Spread of Political Misinformation with Stephan Lewandowsky PhD

from Harvesting Happiness · host Lisa Cypers Kamen

The pervasive nature of social media can undermine the democratic process by facilitating the widespread dissemination of political misinformation and a decline in critical thinking. This phenomenon can be exacerbated by groupthink, where individuals conform to the prevailing opinions of their social circles, and various forms of cognitive bias that lead people to favor information confirming their existing beliefs, even in the absence of evidence..To better understand the power of groupthink and cognitive bias, Harvesting Happiness Podcast host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with cognitive scientist and Cognitive Immunity Research Collaborative (CIRCE) researcher Dr. Stephan Lewandowsky.Stephan shares his research on how alternative facts gain acceptance, how technology can undermine the democratic process, and tips on how to discern truth from fiction when consuming media. This episode is proudly sponsored by:Function Health— Offers a revolutionary platform putting healthcare technology in our hands to live 100 healthy years. Get $100 off membership. Visit functionhealth/HH or use gift code HH100 and Quince— Offers high-quality essentials, home decor, and furnishings at radically low prices. Visit quince.com/hhpod for free shipping on your order and a 365-day return policy. Like what you're hearing?WANT MORE SOUND IDEAS FOR DEEPER THINKING? Check out More Mental Fitness by Harvesting Happiness bonus content available exclusively on Substack and Medium.

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This episode was published on July 24, 2025.

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