The Language of Conspiracy Theories Panel Discussion
Description/Abstract/Artist Statement
The FBI defines extremist conspiracy theories as an “attempt to explain events or circumstances as the result of a group of actors working in secret to benefit themselves at the expense of others” which are “usually at odds with official or prevailing explanations of events.” This panel will discuss the language features that can be used to recognize conspiracy theories. Panelists will also address circumstances that make people vulnerable to conspiracy theories, the spread of conspiracy theories, and how conspiracy theories are an assault on expertise and a threat to the rule of law and a democracy. We conclude with strategies for raising awareness about the danger of conspiracy theories.
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
Bridget Anderson
College Affiliation
College of Arts & Letters
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Disciplines
Other Arts and Humanities
Session Title
The Language of Conspiracy Theories: Linguistic Perspectives
Location
Zoom Room FF
Start Date
3-20-2021 3:00 PM
End Date
3-20-2021 3:55 PM
The Language of Conspiracy Theories Panel Discussion
Zoom Room FF
The FBI defines extremist conspiracy theories as an “attempt to explain events or circumstances as the result of a group of actors working in secret to benefit themselves at the expense of others” which are “usually at odds with official or prevailing explanations of events.” This panel will discuss the language features that can be used to recognize conspiracy theories. Panelists will also address circumstances that make people vulnerable to conspiracy theories, the spread of conspiracy theories, and how conspiracy theories are an assault on expertise and a threat to the rule of law and a democracy. We conclude with strategies for raising awareness about the danger of conspiracy theories.