Plain English with Derek Thompson The Psychology of Conspiracy Theories
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Sep 6, 2024 In this engaging conversation, Joseph Uscinski, a political scientist from the University of Miami and an expert on conspiratorial thinking, reveals intriguing insights about conspiracy theories in America. He discusses how feelings of betrayal can lead to conspiracy beliefs, especially among marginalized groups. Uscinski debunks the myth of an increased prevalence of conspiracies and explores their psychological roots. The episode also delves into surprising similarities in belief across the political spectrum, challenging stereotypes about liberals and conservatives.
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Conspiracy Theorist Career Advice
- To become a successful conspiracy theorist, focus on established villains.
- Target groups that people already dislike and are familiar with, like big banks or political parties.
Nothing New Under the Sun
- Conspiracy theories rarely offer anything new; they recycle existing narratives.
- They often function as Mad Libs, swapping nouns and verbs within familiar frameworks, like blaming pre-existing disliked groups.
Defining Conspiracy Theories
- Conspiracy theories explain events by blaming small, powerful groups acting secretly against the common good.
- They lack expert consensus based on open data and evidence, unlike plausible counter-narratives.