Modern Wisdom

#451 - Derek Beres - Conspiracy Theories In New Age Cults

Mar 24, 2022

Join Derek Beres, an author and media expert, as he dives into the surprising ties between far-left yoga enthusiasts and far-right conspiracy theorists. He discusses how the term 'conspiracy' has evolved and the allure of such theories, especially within New Age communities. Discover the concept of 'conspirituality,' the seductive nature of cult leaders, and the role of social media in shaping beliefs. Beres emphasizes the importance of discernment in today’s complex information landscape and the need for self-awareness amidst rising ideological extremes.

01:13:42

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Episode guests

Derek Beres

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Episode notes

Intro

2min

Exploring Conspiracy Theories in New Age Cults

2min

Conspirituality: The Intersection of Belief and Conspiracy

15min

Identity and Perception in the Social Media Age

7min

Exploring Conspiracy Beliefs in Western Societies

2min

Navigating Media Trust and Conspiracy Dynamics

25min

Navigating Ethics in Podcast Monetization

15min

The Ethical Cult Dilemma

4min

Ideological Extremes and Conspiracy Theories

5min

Derek Beres is an author & media expert, the Senior Editor at Eco & co-host of the Conspirituality podcast.

Far left yoga mums and far right trolls aren't the most obvious pairing that you would put together, however these unlikely ideological allies have more in common than you might think. Much of the thinking within these groups has converged in recent years and Derek is here to explain how this happens.

Expect to learn how the term conspiracy has been diluted down to mean all manner of things now, the typical characteristics of a cult leader, why conspiracy theories are so seductive to the people tempted by them, how spirituality adds a different flavour to conspiratorial tropes, whether I need to stop saying hello cult members and much more...

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