PopSci
Here are some popular science articles that may be of interest.
25 October, 2025
Podcast: Why is misinformation so powerful?
Misinformation and disinformation now pose some of the biggest global risks to democracy and public trust.
Associate Professor Piers Howe explains how misinformation and disinformation spreads, and the subtle but influential ways they can shift public opinion, disrupt elections and damage society. With the rise of AI and sophisticated campaigns, he explains why it's more important than ever to stay informed, think critically and understand the science behind persuasion.
15 April, 2025
Disinformation damages democracy, but perhaps not in the way you think
Many Australians are aware of the influence of misinformation and disinformation on elections, but there are more insidious ways it harms our democratic society
June 13, 2024
Finding a faster, cheaper way to curb misinformation
Piers Howe
The spread of false information is jeopardising global health and security, prompting the need to find quick, cost-effective interventions.
November 22, 2023
Move over, agony aunt: study finds ChatGPT gives better advice than professional columnists
Piers Howe
We tested how ChatGPT stacks up against professional advice columnists – with some intriguing results.
December 18, 2018
Conform to the social norm: why people follow what other people do
Campbell Pryor & Piers Howe
Just because somebody else does something doesn’t mean you have to follow. Or does it?
January 14, 2014
Know this: the ‘sixth sense’ is all in your head
Piers Howe & Margaret Webb
Many of us have had this experience: you’re sure that something has changed, but unable to say what it is. Perhaps a colleague has new glasses, or has grown a beard. For all of your trying to identify…