Mike Rothschild, an author and expert on conspiracy theories, joins Jonah to discuss the fallacies behind conspiracy theories like Pizzagate and the Rothschilds' supposed lease on Israel. They explore the reasons people subscribe to conspiracy theories and the role of social media in spreading them. The podcast also highlights the dangerous consequences of conspiracy theories, such as antisemitism.
Conspiracy theories like QAnon gain traction by providing a sense of unity and explanation for individuals dissatisfied with the world.
Anti-Semitic narratives can evolve from conspiracy theories when individuals believe in a dark cabal, like a Jewish cabal, funding and controlling the conspiracy.
Social media has amplified and accelerated the spread of conspiracy theories, making all-consuming conspiracy worlds increasingly visible and influential.
Deep dives
Overview of the Rothschilds and their history
The Rothschilds were a German Jewish banking family that emerged in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. They started as money changers in the Frankfurt Jewish ghetto and eventually rose to become court Jews to the crown prince of Hess. They expanded their wealth by funding the Napoleonic Wars and later invested in railroads, mines, and other businesses. The family became highly influential and wealthy, known as the kings of Jews in Europe.
Anti-Semitic tropes and conspiracy theories surrounding the Rothschilds
The Rothschilds faced numerous anti-Semitic tropes and conspiracy theories throughout history. These included the perception that they were greedy money lenders, rootless cosmopolitans, and controllers of global finance. One conspiracy theory falsely claimed that Nathan Rothschild profited from the Battle of Waterloo by manipulating the stock market. Another myth suggested that the family played a role in starting the American Civil War and sought to divide the United States between them. These false narratives often had no basis in reality but gained traction due to their sensational nature.
The impact of QAnon in mainstreaming conspiracy theories
QAnon, a conspiracy theory movement, played a significant role in mainstreaming anti-Semitic tropes and conspiracy theories, including those involving the Rothschilds. It propagated false claims like the Jewish space laser theory, which alleged that the Rothschilds used a space-based laser to start forest fires. While QAnon may have waned in popularity, its ideas have seeped into the broader far-right movement. The belief in secret cabals, child trafficking, and the depopulation agenda associated with vaccines has become more prevalent, even outside the QAnon community. These theories find fertile ground due to their ability to provide a sense of belonging, secret knowledge, and self-importance to individuals who feel isolated.
The Appeal of Conspiracy Theories and Anti-Semitic Narratives
Conspiracy theories, such as QAnon, gain traction because they provide a sense of unity and explanation for people who feel unease and dissatisfaction with the world. These theories can evolve into anti-Semitic narratives when individuals believe that a dark cabal, like a Jewish cabal, controls and funds the conspiracy. Isolation and affirmation within like-minded communities further solidify these beliefs, making them addictive and shaping individuals' worldviews. Some people dismiss conspiracy theorists as crazy, but it is important to recognize that many are not. Understanding the underlying reasons behind their beliefs can help address the issue.
The Rise of Conspiracy Theories in the Age of Social Media
Conspiracy theories have always existed, but social media has amplified and accelerated their spread. With the barrier to entry removed, anyone can find or create a community of believers for any belief they desire. Social media platforms provide a platform for influencers to gain followers and turn conspiracy theories into a profession. The ease of access and ability to connect with like-minded individuals have made these all-consuming conspiracy worlds increasingly visible. While the prevalence of belief in conspiracy theories may not have significantly increased, their visibility and impact have grown due to the rapid dissemination of information and the ease of finding validation for one's beliefs.
Jonah teams up with Mike Rothschild (who, shockingly enough, is not a member of the Rothschild family) to discuss conspiracy theories and the fallacies that undergird them on today's Remnant. In a conversation that touches on wackiness ranging from Pizzagate to the Rothschilds' supposed lease on Israel, Jonah and Mike try to understand why conspiracy theories formulate and what makes people subscribe to them. What do pro-Trump conspiracy theories indicate about the state of our institutions? Why is antisemitism such a pervasive evil? And a general decline in in social media to connect crazy people to crazy ideas in ways that underground bookstores never could.
