Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard David Farrier
Sep 24, 2020
David Farrier, a New Zealand investigative journalist, captivates with his insights into conspiracy theories. He discusses the psychological allure of beliefs like QAnon and Flat Earth, exploring how personal struggles drive people towards these narratives. Farrier also shares details from his documentary 'Tickled,' revealing deeper societal themes. The conversation swings between humor and the darker aspects of dark tourism, examining our fascination with tragedy and strange realities, all while urging empathy in addressing unconventional beliefs.
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Tickled Documentary's Dark Discovery
- David Farrier discovered competitive endurance tickling videos that seemed homoerotic and fetishistic.
- The anonymous operator lashed out with homophobic responses when questioned, revealing closeted impulses.
QAnon as Alternate Reality Game
- QAnon began in obscure internet forums but spread widely, blending real child trafficking with bizarre myths.
- It acts like an alternate reality game engaging users to decode hidden messages and create elaborate theories.
Childhood Conditioning Enables Belief
- Humans are primed from childhood to sometimes suspend critical thinking for rewards.
- This pattern underlies susceptibility to various beliefs, including conspiracy theories.
