Why Is It That Even Proven Facts Can't Change Some People's Minds?

Explore why facts alone may not be enough to change someone's mind and gain insights into the psychology behind it.

By Anna Nordseth
Jul 10, 2023 6:00 PM
Misinformation graphic
(Credit: SkyPics Studio/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

In a world where information is always at our fingertips, it can be baffling that misinformation continues to run rampant. With scientific facts so easily accessible, it should be simple to set the record straight.

However, scientific research has confirmed: Facts alone aren’t always enough to correct misinformation and change people's minds.

Unfortunately, the way our brains store information isn’t always conducive to correction. On top of that, we aren’t as rational as we like to think we are, which tangles our understanding of the world in a sticky web of personal identity and emotion.

Information Retention

Our brains have a remarkable ability to retain information, albeit with some quirks.

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.