Misconceptions on misinformation

Show from 07/06/24
Host Jeremy Schwartz is joined by David Rothschild, a senior economist at Microsoft, who shares his research on the misconceptions surrounding online misinformation. David explains the nuanced landscape of media consumption, emphasizing the importance of understanding the broader media ecosystem and the role of algorithms. The two explore the challenges of addressing misinformation and the limitations of algorithmic influence, underscoring the role of user choice in content consumption. The conversation also touches on the implications of social media for political polarization. They delve into the potential effects of AI on society and productivity, with David highlighting both the opportunities and challenges presented by advancements in generative AI. He shares insights from his work on the Media Bias Detector, a tool designed to analyze media coverage and its impact on public perception, and discusses the broader implications of AI-driven research for understanding. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of media, technology, and their intersection with societal trends.
Guest: David Rothschild is an economist at Microsoft Research. He has a Ph.D. in applied economics from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. He has written extensively, in both the academic and popular press. His work pushes the boundaries on varying data and methods: polling, prediction markets, social media and online data, and large behavioral and administrative data. His work focuses on solving practical and interesting questions including: mapping and updating public opinion, the market for news, effect of advertising, finance, and an economist's take on public policy.
Learn more about David at: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/people/davidmr/
Follow David on X(Twitter): @DavMicRot