Dr. Jud Brewer on How to Combat Misinformation and Spread Hope
Practice internet distancing when you come across something that shocks your brain into survival mode, so that you don't spread fear and misinformation. Spreading news of hope helps that mental hygiene for us all.
Ever wondered why we can't resist clicking on sensational news stories, even when we know they might not be true? Dr. Jud Brewer, an addiction psychiatrist and neuroscientist, breaks down the brain's reaction to sensationalized news and why misinformation spreads so easily. In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Jud explains how dopamine, the brain's 'feel-good' chemical, plays a role in our consumption of exciting but often false information.
He reveals how our ancient brain's survival mechanisms are at odds with our modern world, causing us to share misinformation without even realizing it. But don't worry, Dr. Jud offers a practical solution: the WAIT acronym. This simple tip can help you pause and think before spreading potentially harmful news. By focusing on sharing hopeful and positive stories, we can combat the spread of misinformation and improve our mental well-being.
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by the constant flood of news or just curious about how your brain works, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice. Tune in to learn how you can keep your brain healthy and spread a little more hope in the world.