Poor numerical literacy linked to greater susceptibility to Covid-19 fake news

[Judi Lynn]

Cambridge University study also suggests older people less likely to believe coronavirus misinformation

Natalie Grover Science correspondent
Tue 13 Oct 2020 19.01 EDT

People with poor numerical literacy are more likely to believe Covid-19 misinformation, according to a survey conducted in five countries.

Researchers at Cambridge University said the findings suggested improving people’s analytical skills could help turn the tide against an epidemic of “fake news” surrounding the health crisis.

Five national surveys – reflecting national quotas for age and gender – were conducted this year to evaluate susceptibility to coronavirus-related misinformation and its influence on key health-related behaviours.

The study found the most consistent predictor of decreased susceptibility to misinformation about Covid-19 was numerical literacy – the ability to digest and apply quantitative information broadly.

More:
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/oct/14/poor-numerical-literacy-linked-to-greater-susceptibility-to-covid-19-fake-news

[JI7]

1. It also shows the failure of the news media

Why do they have such trouble just reporting on the facts ?

[Doodley]

2. And the failure of lawmakers - those who spread false information and those who don't use effective

messaging to counter that.

[lagomorph777]

3. Older people are wiser about COVID.

Not a shocker, given the nature of the threat. But seniors are a key Reptilican voting block. Oops. Lost 'em.