Combating Disinformation Part 1

Mis, dis, and mal information are everywhere. Everyone must know the difference between them because anyone can be led astray by their nefarious ways. Knowing that these forms of information manipulation exist and the difference between them is critical so that we know the best approach to inoculate ourselves and our society from their worst effects. Indeed, inoculation from these poisons will support for a functioning society and democracy. And while it may sound like hyperbole, quite seriously, this could even save someone’s life. Social media and now generative artificial intelligence (AI) allow for the possibility of manipulated information to be created and go viral more easily than ever. Each of us are on the frontlines in this fight between weaponized mis-/dis-/mal- information and Truth.

To train for the battles ahead, first, we need to become skilled at identifying and combating each type of information manipulation. Then, we need to teach others to do the same. As part of MJN’s Narrative Change work, learning from trusted experts, we are exploring how to counter mis-/dis-/mal- information, starting with the basics.

MISinformation – Information that is false but believed to be true by those disseminating it. It differs from disinformation in the absence of an intention to mislead or harm.

DISinformation – Information that is false and is disseminated intentionally to cause harm.

MALinformation – Information based on fact but used out of context to mislead, harm or manipulate

Thank you to Joe Cardillo for providing the definitions from an MJN virtual gathering in August 2024.