Conspiracy Theory: Causes, Consequences, and Responses

Catalog description

In today’s media-driven age, misinformation and disinformation feed conspiracy theories. This requires that we engage critically with data provided to arrive at personal/societal responses on how to live together that are less divisive and more productive. We will use a research tool called the PRESTEL (Political, Religious, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, and Legal) analysis to understand how these variables fuel conspiracy beliefs individually and collectively. We also explore how these variables are affected by conspiracy beliefs in turn. Students will be enabled to protect themselves from falling victim to misinformation and disinformation. On a societal level, they will also contribute to effective and constructive policy development.