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Psychology In Seattle Podcast

The Psychology of Q'Anon (2021 Rerun)

Sep 17, 2024
Humberto, a guest expert on contemporary conspiracy theories, dives deep into the psychology behind QAnon. He examines how historical and societal factors fuel these beliefs, contrasting them with the absurdity of some predictions. The conversation reveals how online communities amplify extreme ideologies, manipulating perceptions of influential figures. They highlight the dangerous impacts on politics, especially post-Capitol attack, while promoting empathy for those ensnared in these narratives. It's an engaging exploration of belief dynamics and the complex web of misinformation.
02:45:41

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • QAnon arose from a mix of existing conspiracy theories and social media dynamics, emerging prominently around 2017 amidst political backlash.
  • At its core, QAnon's ideology centers on unfounded beliefs about a global cabal, framing its followers as heroes in a moral battle.

Deep dives

Understanding QAnon: Origins and Growth

QAnon emerged from a combination of pre-existing conspiracy theories and social media dynamics, gaining traction roughly in 2017. Its roots can be traced back to the backlash against the Obama administration, with groups like Alex Jones' Infowars laying the groundwork for extreme fringe beliefs. The intense climate of fear during events like the COVID-19 pandemic and significant political shifts allowed QAnon to flourish, drawing in a diverse membership that included conservatives, former Democrats, and disillusioned Christians. This broad-based appeal was further amplified by the way these theories offered simple explanations for complex societal issues.

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