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Evolutionary biology as a frontier for research on misinformation
Michael Simeone1, Kristy Roschke2, Shawn Walker3
1School of Complex Adaptive Systems, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA.
Summary
Researchers are applying life science concepts, like fitness models, to understand how online misinformation spreads and adapts. This interdisciplinary approach helps analyze why certain false narratives succeed in the complex information ecosystem.
Area of Science:
- Interdisciplinary studies
- Information science
- Life sciences
Background:
- The field of misinformation studies has grown significantly, driven by online information operations and "fake news."
- Researchers from diverse fields like philosophy and computer science are analyzing false and misleading information.
- Existing research adapts concepts from epidemiology to understand misinformation spread, contagion, and resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the application of life science concepts for understanding misinformation adaptation.
- To investigate how viewing information as an organism in an ecosystem can explain narrative success or failure.
- To advocate for collaborations between misinformation researchers and life scientists.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual adaptation of epidemiological models.
- Application of life science theories, including evolutionary concepts.
- Analysis of information as entities within a complex ecosystem.
Main Results:
- Life science concepts offer novel frameworks for analyzing misinformation dynamics.
- Viewing information through an ecological lens enhances understanding of narrative success.
- Fitness models, adapted responsibly, can significantly bolster misinformation research.
Conclusions:
- Interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly with life scientists, is crucial for advancing misinformation studies.
- Adapting biological concepts like fitness can provide powerful tools for analyzing online information.
- A deeper understanding of misinformation's adaptation and spread is achievable through integrating diverse scientific perspectives.
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