June 24, 2024—Did you know misinformation can erode life expectancy? Dive into this critical issue with Timothy Caulfield, science expert, renowned author, and Netflix host on November 6, 2024, at the Kay Meek Arts Centre for “Misinformation is Killing Us!” This highly anticipated fundraiser for the West Vancouver Memorial Library Foundation will uncover how social media, ChatGPT, and AI spread disinformation, distort our reality, and ultimately jeopardize our health.
Concerns over mis- and disinformation have heightened. A recent Policy Horizons Canada panel listed it as the number one threat to Canadians. Yet, in another poll by Abacus Data, 84% of Canadians were concerned about the spread of misinformation and disinformation. Dr. Timothy Caulfield, awarded the Order of Canada for his contributions to health law and policy, will join Stephanie Hall, Director of the West Vancouver Memorial Library, to delve into these findings and discuss the profound implications of living in an era where truth is increasingly elusive. They will discuss practical solutions to navigate and counteract the dangers of our distorted information landscape.
Anjili Bahadoorsingh, Chair of the West Vancouver Memorial Library Foundation, emphasizes the urgency: “Misinformation is a silent crisis undermining our health, choices, and democracy. It’s not just adults who are affected—our kids are growing up in a world where TikTok trends can spread falsehoods faster than facts.” She continues, “Every ticket sold directly supports the Library’s vital work in building a more informed and resilient community. By confronting misinformation head-on, as Dr. Timothy Caulfield will do at this event, you will grasp what’s at stake for our well-being and recognize the crucial role local institutions like libraries play in addressing this threat.”
This year’s event will raise funds to ensure the Library can swiftly adapt to technological advancements and stay at the forefront of digital education while hearing from one of Canada’s foremost experts on truth and misinformation. Tickets are $150 early bird until August 30, and after that, they will be $175, which can be purchased through the Kay Meek website.
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Speaker Bio | Meet Dr. Timothy Caulfield: The Myth-Buster
Professor Timothy Caulfield is a fearless communicator renowned for debunking myths and revealing the truth behind health innovations—from stem cells to diets and alternative medicine. He is the author of several best-selling books, including Is Gwyneth Paltrow Wrong About Everything?, The Cure for Everything!, and Relax, Dammit!. As a Canada Research Chair in Health Law and Policy, a Faculty of Law and the School of Public Health professor, and the Research Director of the Health Law Institute at the University of Alberta, Caulfield is dedicated to combating misinformation and promoting scientific literacy. He was awarded the Order of Canada for his contributions to health law and policy.
About the West Vancouver Memorial Library Foundation
The West Vancouver Memorial Library Foundation supports the work of the West Vancouver Memorial Library through its endowments and donations, enabling innovative programs that offer exceptional services to patrons, local citizens, and visitors. The Foundation’s grants enable the Library to offer enhanced services and additional programming to the West Vancouver community, from the new Brain Health Collection to a state-of-the-art Recording Studio and the popular Friday Night Concert Series.