Cranky Uncle
The Cranky Uncle game employs the concept of inoculation theory to arm players with the tools to combat climate misinformation
Seattle | Started on 15/12/2020
The Cranky Uncle game was created by cognitive scientist and climate communicator John Cook and co-developed with the social good creative agency Goodbeast. Drawing upon Cook’s extensive research in psychology and critical thinking, the Cranky Uncle game employs the concept of inoculation theory to arm players with the tools to combat climate misinformation. Inoculation theory finds that by exposing people to a weakened form of misinformation (e.g., by explaining the techniques used to mislead), we can fortify them against the influence of real misinformation. Cranky Uncle seamlessly merges Cook’s research with captivating gamification elements.
Engaging players through a blend of cartoons, humor, and immersive gameplay, the game equips you with the ability to identify and counter the insidious techniques used to undermine the truth about climate change. In the Cranky Uncle game, a cartoon embodiment of climate-denying uncle explains to players how he uses various misleading techniques of denial. From the manipulation of fake experts to the art of cherry-picking and a myriad of logical fallacies, players gain an in-depth understanding of the strategies employed by those who seek to sow doubt and misinformation. The award-winning, non-profit game is freely available to the general public and has been adopted in classrooms across the world as well as translated into many languages. The game has also led to publication of a scientific paper which won the Publication Award from The Institute for Information Literacy at Purdue University. This recognition further underscores the game’s contribution to enhancing information literacy and critical thinking skills.
More info & Social Media
https://sks.to/crankyscience-vids
https://sks.to/crankyresources
https://www.facebook.com/johnfocook
https://twitter.com/johnfocook
https://www.instagram.com/johnfocook/
Editor’s Note: All information published as submitted by the author(s). Minor edits may have been made to increase readability and understanding.
