Feelings over Facts: Conspiracy Theories and the Internet Novel
The article explores the rise of conspiracy theories in modern culture, their impact on various aspects, and the importance of understanding emotions behind them. It advocates for empathy and emotional comprehension over factual debates.
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The article discusses the prevalence of conspiracy theories in today's internet culture and their impact on politics, art, and society. It explores how conspiracy theories, once considered fringe, have gained legitimacy and influenced mainstream narratives. Authors Naomi Klein and Larne Abse Gogarty delve into the reasons behind the existence of conspiracy theories, emphasizing the importance of understanding the emotions and subjective experiences they reflect rather than solely focusing on their factual accuracy. The piece contrasts conspiracy theories with critical theories, highlighting the shared suspicion of hidden agendas and the belief in exposing hidden truths. It also critiques the obsession with facts in addressing conspiracy theories, arguing that dismissing or trivializing them can be counterproductive. The article suggests that listening to and acknowledging the underlying fears driving conspiracy theories is crucial for building understanding and potentially forming coalitions. Overall, it calls for a more empathetic approach towards conspiracy theorists and emphasizes the emotional rather than factual nature of these theories.
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