Misinformation Vs. Misinterpretation

In 10 contrasting assertions

I have been wrestling with this idea for quite some time: misinformation or misinterpretation?

I couldn’t find a better way to write about it than creating a list of ten contrasting assertions.

Sometimes, that is the best one can do:

1. Misinformation puts the onus on the producer. Misinterpretation puts the onus on the consumer.

2. Misinformation is combatted by limiting the producer. Misinterpretation is combatted by empowering the consumer.

3. Misinformation relies on control. Misinterpretation relies on personal agency.

4. In misinformation, producers are responsible for bad outcomes. In misinterpretation, consumers are responsible.

5. Misinformation arises from malice or incompetence. Misinterpretation arises solely from incompetence.

6. Misinformation requires trusting others. Misinterpretation requires trusting yourself.

7. Misinformation calls for regulation. Misinterpretation calls for education.

8. Misinformation blames the perpetrator. Misinterpretation blames the victim.

9. Misinformation is collective. Misinterpretation is individual.

10. Misinformation exists independently from a receiver. Misinterpretation exists only with a receiver.

And you? How do you feel about it?

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P.s. 1: I have been thinking about this because the world is (understandably) concerned with misinformation, but I don’t see enough about misinterpretation. I don’t have any answers, only a few questions, and I think it’s important to ask good questions.

P.s. 2: All the assertions above are valid both for general cases as well as for data visualization in particular.

P.s. 3: I found it particularly useful to test my personal inclinations by imagining the same contrasting assertions in different contexts. Somehow, for whatever reason, they tend to change if I consider one specific domain or another.