Managing the infodemic : the power and pitfalls of metaphors

Abstract

The phenomenon of infodemic, characterized by the rapid dissemination of misinformation, disinformation, and misconceptions, poses significant threats to public health, social cohesion, and trust in institutions. This letter explores the role of metaphors in contributing to misconceptions and provides insights into effective infodemic management strategies. Metaphors, while powerful tools for simplification and understanding, can unintentionally perpetuate misconceptions. In an infodemic context, carefully crafted metaphors can be harnessed to combat misinformation, but caution must be exercised to avoid reinforcing misconceptions or oversimplifying complex topics. In conclusion, effective infodemic management necessitates leveraging metaphors thoughtfully and engaging experts from diverse fields. By implementing evidence-based strategies and integrating AI responsibly, society can better combat misinformation and promote accurate understanding during an infodemic.