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Plain English with Derek Thompson
The Psychology of Conspiracy Theories
Sep 6, 2024
Joseph Uscinski, a political scientist from the University of Miami, delves into the psychology behind conspiracy theories. He explores their rising popularity, particularly since 2016, and examines the influence of political figures like Donald Trump on public belief. Uscinski offers surprising insights into how both liberals and conservatives engage with conspiratorial thinking, emphasizing that distrust in institutions transcends political boundaries. The conversation uncovers the complex dynamics of belief systems and how media shapes perceptions of conspiracy prevalence.
01:20:07
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Quick takeaways
- Conspiracy theories have become increasingly prevalent in American politics, particularly post-2016, influenced by prominent figures like Donald Trump.
- These theories often thrive on distrust of established institutions and are rooted in a psychological landscape of marginalization and betrayal.
Deep dives
Conspiracy Theories Shaping Modern Elections
The role of conspiracy theories in modern electoral politics has intensified significantly, particularly since Donald Trump's rise. This phenomenon began with the birther conspiracy theory in 2016, which questioned Barack Obama's citizenship. Subsequent elections have seen a continuum of conspiracy theories like Pizzagate and accusations of election rigging, culminating in the January 6 Capitol riots. Today, the political landscape is heavily influenced by right-wing conspiratorial narratives, suggesting a deepening entrenchment of such theories in American political culture.
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