Read more
While engaging in rich discussion, Conspiracy Theories analyzes current arguments and evidence while providing real-world examples so students can contextualize and visualize the debates. Each chapter addresses important current questions, provides conceptual tools, defines important terms, and introduces the appropriate methods of analysis.
List of contents
Chapter 1 Conspiracy Theories across Time and Space
Why do conspiracy theories matter? This introductory chapter first discusses the important impacts
that conspiracy theories have historically had and continue to have on our politics and society. How
do conspiracy theories tie into current phenomena such as fake news, populism, authoritarianism,
overt racism, and nationalism?
Chapter 2 What is a Conspiracy Theory?
The definition of "conspiracy theory" varies widely in popular usage, and arguments about
conspiracy theories often depend on our definitions. What counts as conspiracy theory and why?
What are the main terms to know when discussing conspiracy theories?
Chapter 3 The Psychology of Conspiracy Theories
Much of the research into conspiracy theories has focused on individual psychology. What
psychological factors makes some people more prone than others to believing in conspiracy
theories?
Chapter 4 Conspiracy Theories in the United States
What are the most popular conspiracy theories in the United States currently? What are the
important conspiracy theories historically? Does conspiracy theorizing fit a pattern over time? What
theories can help us understand conspiracy theorizing in the US?
Chapter 5 The Social and Political Determinants of Conspiracy Theorizing
Group membership, be it racial, religious, or political, drives the conspiracy theories that people tend
to believe in. How does group affiliation affect conspiracy belief?
Chapter 6 Conspiracy Theories across the World
What do conspiracy theories look like in other countries? What facets of governmental structure and
culture affect the prevalence of conspiracy theories?
Chapter 7 Are Conspiracy Theories Good or Bad (or both)?
This chapter takes stock of the good, the bad, and the ugly of conspiracy theories.
About the author
By Joseph E. Uscinski
Summary
While engaging in rich discussion, Conspiracy Theories analyzes current arguments and evidence while providing real-world examples so students can contextualize and visualize the debates. Each chapter addresses important current questions, provides conceptual tools, defines important terms, and introduces the appropriate methods of analysis.
