Factually! with Adam Conover

Why Smart People Become Conspiracy Theorists with Naomi Klein

Nov 29, 2023

01:02:19

Snipd AI

Naomi Klein, an award-winning author, joins Adam Conover to discuss the appeal of conspiracy theories. They delve into topics such as doppelgangers and identity confusion, conspiracy influencers, the pressure to post on social media, and the power of control. They also touch on gun control, helping loved ones out of conspiracy theories, and the negative perception of Bill Gates.

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

The prevalence of conspiracy theories is fueled by the intersection of personal identity, media consumption, and politics.

Social media plays a significant role in amplifying and spreading conspiracy theories, contributing to their widespread adoption.

Addressing the issues associated with conspiracy culture requires policy responses to regulate and control the activities of tech companies, rather than just eliminating certain apps or technologies.

Deep dives

The Trap of Conspiratorial Thinking

In this podcast episode, the host discusses the prevalence and appeal of conspiracy theories, particularly in recent years. The episode explores how conspiratorial thinking is not a new phenomenon, but there is something unique about the way people fall into the trap of conspiracy theories now. The episode highlights the role of social media in amplifying and spreading these theories, as well as the intersection of personal identity, media consumption, and politics in shaping individuals' beliefs. It also touches on the challenges of navigating relationships with loved ones who have embraced conspiracy theories.

Introduction

4min

Doppelgangers and Identity Confusion

18min

A Viral Moment and an Error in a Book

3min

Conspiracy Influencers and the Psychology Behind Them

6min

Backblaze: Unlimited Data Backup and Business Options

6min

The Pressure to Post and Speak Up

18min

Being Seen and the Power of Control

8min

Wrapping Up with Naomi Klein

2min

What is the appeal of conspiracy theories, and how is it that they entrap our friends, coworkers, or family members? Political polarization and the rise of social media have generated an unprecedented amount of seemingly absurd misinformation, yet many real people fall for it, and a seemingly endless supply of grifters are ready to exploit them. In this episode, Adam speaks with award-winning author Naomi Klein about what led us to this moment and what hope we have of extricating loved ones who've fallen prey to conspiracy. Find Naomi's book at factuallypod.com/books

SUPPORT THE SHOW ON PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/adamconover

SEE ADAM ON TOUR: https://www.adamconover.net/tourdates/

SUBSCRIBE to and RATE Factually! on:

» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/factually-with-adam-conover/id1463460577

» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0fK8WJw4ffMc2NWydBlDyJ

About Headgum: Headgum is an LA & NY-based podcast network creating premium podcasts with the funniest, most engaging voices in comedy to achieve one goal: Making our audience and ourselves laugh. Listen to our shows at https://www.headgum.com.

» SUBSCRIBE to Headgum: https://www.youtube.com/c/HeadGum?sub_confirmation=1

» FOLLOW us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/headgum

» FOLLOW us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/headgum/

» FOLLOW us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@headgum

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.