• Online, Instructor-Led

In a reversal of conventional scientific reasoning, the evidence against conspiracy theories is often construed as evidence for them, because the evidence is interpreted as arising from the conspiracy in question.
Conspiracy Theories are commonplace today. Or more importantly, they were always there but now they have become mainstream. People – including conspiracy theorists themselves – just write off these beliefs as “crazy.” However, they can potentially cause lasting damage. The psychology behind conspiracy theories and why people cling to them is so important but often overlooked. We should know how to tackle this, but we do not yet. Many argue that we were so complacent when it comes to conspiracy theories that it allows certain political candidates to win support and end up becoming elected. We underestimated the influence then, and probably still is now.

Learning Objectives

Vulnerable people are more likely to believe these theories, so we must ensure we do not downplay influence and we highlight the risks associated with them. Although the internet has allowed for theories to spread more quickly and more widely, it also allows us to be more critical of what we read and believe. Conspiracy theories have been around for centuries. In the last few decades, their influence has remained much the same, despite them seeming more widespread. It seems in the past perhaps we have been too dismissive of conspiracy theories. However, now that there is so many surrounding Coronavirus, we seem to understand the potential risks they can pose. In the grand scheme of things, most people know how to spot (and therefore dismiss) conspiracy theories.

Framework Connections

The materials within this course focus on the NICE Framework Task, Knowledge, and Skill statements identified within the indicated NICE Framework component(s):