The Daily 'Rabbit Hole,' Episode 8: 'We Go All'
Jun 6, 2020
Kevin Roose, a tech columnist for the New York Times and host of "Rabbit Hole," takes listeners deep into the life of a QAnon believer who navigates faith and loss amidst online realities. The conversation dives into how personal tragedies, like the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, can lead individuals to conspiracy theories. Roose examines the emotional ties to communities built around misinformation, the manipulative power of social media algorithms, and how these digital echo chambers can profoundly alter perceptions of reality.
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Sam's Path to QAnon
- Sam, a former QAnon believer, was initially drawn to the conspiracy theory after experiencing financial hardship.
- The 2008 housing market crash and Hurricane Irma left her emotionally vulnerable and searching for answers.
Algorithm's Role
- Sam's QAnon exposure stemmed from YouTube recommendations while spending significant time online.
- This highlights how algorithms can lead individuals down specific rabbit holes based on their viewing habits.
Katie G's Influence
- Katie G, a QAnon influencer, initially attracted Sam with her deep-dive analyses and engaging presentation style.
- Sam perceived Katie G as a smart and credible researcher.