The Benjamin Franklin effect describes the phenomenon where “we grow to like people for whom we do nice things and dislike those to whom we are unkind”. The incident is named after Franklin’s method of winning over a man who tarnished his reputation. He borrowed a rare book from the man — perhaps an honour, as Franklin had refined literary tastes — which fooled him into perceiving Franklin in a favourable light. After all, why else would he lend a rare book to someone he disliked? Read full article here
Research
Improving media literacy could boost trust towards the news, IMPRESS report suggests
The UK media is regulated by the likes of IPSO and Ofcom. The report by press regulator IMPRESS highlights the link between low levels of media literacy and trust in the news. The study found that three quarters of those who did not know if journalists were regulated did not trust the news. It suggests that improving media literacy is one way to stem the erosion of trust, and shows that audiences have an appetite for information on news processes. Stakeholders need to collaborate in order to rebuild trust in the news, and independent media is well placed to do this. Read full article here
Merv
February 1, 2023
