Darren, the editor of conspiracy theory newspaper The Light, is interviewed by Marianna Spring. They discuss various conspiracy theories and beliefs, including global warming and the 9/11 attacks. They also address the responsibility of editors to provide accurate information and the endorsement of violence by followers of the conspiracy theory newspaper.
Conspiracy theories have the potential to radicalize individuals and lead to dangerous actions, as seen in events like the US Capitol riots and the foiled coup attempt in Germany.
The Light conspiracy theory newspaper, despite claiming to separate legitimate concerns from extreme views, has links to far-right and anti-Semitic figures, shares content from UK far-right groups on its Telegram channel, and promotes ambiguous statements and endorsements regarding violence.
Deep dives
The Rise of Conspiracy Theories and Radicalization
In this podcast episode, Marianna Spring explores the world of conspiracy theories and the alarming rise of radicalization associated with them. She investigates the conspiracy theory media and its impact, highlighting how certain beliefs, although not acted upon by the majority, can become more extreme. Examples such as the conspiracy theory-driven riots at the US Capitol and the foiled coup attempt in Germany illustrate the potential dangers of radicalization.
Role of The Light Conspiracy Theory Newspaper
The podcast delves into an interview with Darren, the editor of The Light conspiracy theory newspaper. He discusses the paper's distribution, subscriber base, and financial support from both readers and advertisers. While Darren claims to support free speech and separate legitimate concerns from extreme views, criticism arises from the paper's links to far-right and anti-Semitic figures. The podcast also highlights concerns about the paper's Telegram channel, which shares content from UK far-right groups and an extreme group offering military-style training to anti-vaccine activists.
Calls to Action and Effects on Radicalization
The podcast examines the potential impact of calls to action found in conspiracy theory media, specifically focusing on attendees of rallies opposing lockdown measures and vaccinations. Citing research from King's College London, it reveals that a significant number of attendees (61.5% on average) view violence as justified. The host questions Darren about his stance on violence and draws attention to ambiguous statements and endorsements found in The Light. Finally, the episode concludes with an unsettling poem shared by Darren on Facebook, highlighting the ongoing dangers and consequences of conspiracy theories and their promotion of hate.
Who is the man behind The Light? BBC disinformation and social media correspondent Marianna Spring tracks down the editor of the conspiracy theory newspaper, The Light. His name is Darren and he agrees to meet Marianna in a pub just outside Manchester for a dual interview in which she interviews him for the podcast and he interviews her. What answers will she get about the paper and the man at its helm?
Host: Marianna Spring
Producers: Philip Marzouk and Olivia Lace-Evans
Producer for BBC Radio 4 podcasts: Nathan Jones
Technical Producer: Alex Portfelix
Series producer: Emma Close
Senior news editor: Sam Bonham
Commissioner: Rhian Roberts
New episodes released every few days. If you're in the UK, listen to the whole series first on BBC Sounds bbc.in/42x5sO5
And please get in touch with Marianna by emailing at: mariannainconspiracyland@bbc.co.uk.
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