*A new study from the University of California, Berkeley, has found that the intentions of an information source can have a significant impact on what Americans think qualifies as true.*

The study, which was published in the journal "Science Advances," found that when people believe an information source is trying to be helpful, they are more likely to believe the information is true, even if it is not accurate.

Conversely, when people believe an information source is trying to mislead them, they are more likely to reject the information, even if it is accurate.

The study's findings have important implications for how people consume and process information in today's world, where there is a constant flow of information from a variety of sources.

"Our study suggests that people are not simply passive recipients of information," said study lead author David Lazer. "They actively evaluate the information they receive and make judgments about its truthfulness based on their beliefs about the source of the information."

The study also found that people's beliefs about the intentions of an information source are often based on their political views. For example, liberals are more likely to believe information from sources they perceive to be liberal, while conservatives are more likely to believe information from sources they perceive to be conservative.

"This finding suggests that people are more likely to believe information that confirms their existing beliefs," Lazer said. "This can lead to people becoming more polarized in their views and less likely to consider opposing viewpoints."

The study's findings have important implications for how people consume and process information in today's world. In a world where there is a constant flow of information from a variety of sources, it is important to be aware of the potential biases that can affect our judgments about what is true.

"We need to be critical of the information we receive and not simply accept it at face value," Lazer said. "We should also be aware of our own biases and how they might affect our judgments about the truthfulness of information."