Symposium to explore misinformation

A symposium next week at UBC Okanagan will look at the dangers of misinformation, fake news and conspiracy theories.

Roger W. Gale Symposium: The Misinformation Age goes from 1-5 p.m. Thursday and Friday via Zoom.

The event will feature talks from experts in the areas of law, internet, psychology, journalism, history and science to discuss the role of misinformation in everything from the pandemic and the 2020 American presidential election to the tools authoritarian regimes use to disseminate falsehoods.

“To stave off the negative impacts of misinformation, we need to first understand it and then find a way to combat it while preserving free speech,” said Dan Ryder, event organizer and associate professor of philosophy.

The event is free and open to all and online pre-registration is required. To register, or learn more about the lineup of speakers, visit epp.ok.ubc.ca/about/misinformation-age.