Agnotology Tools to Combat Science Myths and Strategic Misinformation
These tools empower educators and the public with resources to counter scientific myths, strategic misinformation/disinformation campaigns, and misunderstandings.
Animal Research Advocacy Primer
Advocating for your work in layman’s terms isn’t always easy, but it’s always important. Whether it involves talking to your family around the Thanksgiving dinner table, giving a presentation at your child’s career day or explaining a research breakthrough to a reporter, our talking tips can help make the process a little easier.Crisis and Communications Manual
Crisis and Communications Manual
The Black Book provides strategic guidance for member organizations facing or planning for animal research-related crisis situations.
Debunking (Inoculation) Handbook
Debunking myths is problematic. This guide provides detailed information about how to debunk myths and misinformation using inoculation. Unless great care is taken, any effort to debunk misinformation can inadvertently reinforce the very myths one seeks to correct. To avoid these “backfire effects,” an effective debunking requires three major elements. First, the refutation must focus on core facts rather than the myth to avoid the misinformation becoming more familiar. Second, any mention of a myth should be preceded by explicit warnings to notify the reader that the upcoming information is false. Finally, the refutation should include an alternative explanation that accounts for important qualities in the original misinformation.
Science & Society Workshop Presentation
PowerPoint presentation used at the Science & Society workshops.