Does Analytic Thinking Insulate Against Pro‐Kremlin Disinformation? Evidence From Ukraine

Pro-Kremlin disinformation campaigns have long targeted Ukraine. We investigate susceptibility to this pro-Kremlin from a cognitive-science perspective. Is greater analytic thinking associated with less belief in disinformation, as per classical theories of reasoning? Or does amplify motivated system 2 reasoning (or “cultural cognition”), such that is more polarized beliefs (and thus among pro-Russia Ukrainians)? In online (N = 1,974) and face-to-face representative 9,474) samples Ukrainians, we find support for the account. Analytic thinking, measured using Cognitive Reflection Test, was ability discern truth disinformation—even Ukrainians who are strongly oriented towards Russia. similar, albeit weaker, results when operationalizing self-report Actively Open-Minded Thinking scale. These demonstrate similar pattern prior work American participants. Thus, positive association between versus falsehood generalizes qualitatively different information environment postcommunist Despite low trust government media, weak journalistic standards, years exposure Russian engage better able tell falsehood.