I found the story, “Rumors of 3-day darkness sent people buying rice in Surigao del Norte,” by Chris Panganiban (4/8/24), relevant. It is a striking example of a far darker problem in our society: the widespread lack of scientific literacy. It is quite worrisome to see people simply give up on critical thinking when confronted with such an absurd assertion.
It is not for us to assign blame to the terrified locals. When one lacks information, fear is a normal human reaction. The system is to blame for not providing them with the necessary resources to safely traverse the dangerous waters of internet knowledge. We are submerged in a sea of false information, and even the most well-meaning people might be carried away in the absence of scientific knowledge, which serves as a life preserver.
This is also a reminder that in education, a paradigm change is needed. Science shouldn’t be just a boring list of facts to commit to memory. Inquiry, critical thinking, and knowledge assessment should be ingrained in daily life. Children need to be trained to read critically about the scientific environment in which they live, just as we educate them to read.
But knowledge on its own is insufficient. It is the duty of organizations like the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration to convey difficult scientific ideas in a simple and understandable manner. They must gain the public’s trust by becoming dependable information pillars amid a deluge of exaggerated claims.
Social media sites must also do more to combat disinformation, which spreads like a disease. Stricter moderation and fact-checking procedures are essential to stop the spread of lies.
But ultimately, each of us must take responsibility for the other. We need to develop a healthy distrust of internet sources of information. Don’t use fear as your sole guide. Take a minute when you share that frightening headline because of a popular post. Obtain confirmation from reliable sources.
Though it wasn’t the end of the world, the “three-day darkness” story is a serious warning. May this be the moment of change. Let’s make investments in science education, equip individuals with media literacy, and work together to drive out disinformation with reason.
Lemuel L. Barola,
Surigao City, Surigao del Norte