Chapter 1: The Allure of Conspiracy Theories

How does one become inclined to conspiracy thinking?

A Healthy Dose of Skepticism

In recent years, the study of conspiracy theorists has shifted from merely viewing them as oddities to understanding the roots of their distrust. A new generation of researchers, including sociologist Jaron Harambam, emphasizes the importance of exploring the origins of this skepticism rather than simply debunking the theories themselves.

In the 1990s, as shows like The X-Files captivated audiences with themes of dark agendas, extraterrestrial life, and government cover-ups, Harambam, a young man from Amsterdam, found himself drawn into this world. After pursuing a sociology degree, he revisited conspiracy theories during the financial crisis, sparked by a friend's recommendation of Peter Joseph's Zeitgeist documentaries. These films examined conspiracies involving religion, the 9/11 attacks, and the banking system—topics that piqued Harambam's curiosity about why these narratives were largely absent from mainstream discourse. His interest evolved into a determination to investigate conspiracy thinkers as part of his PhD work at Erasmus University.

The Shift in Perspective

Historically, conspiracy theorists have been dismissed as deluded, with researchers often linking their beliefs to mental health issues or irrationality. The prevailing view was one of fear: the spread of these theories could threaten societal stability. However, Harambam and his peers are adopting a more nuanced approach. They aim to understand conspiracy thinking as a reflection of societal issues rather than a mere deviation from rationality.

Common Themes Among Conspiracy Thinkers

To conduct his research, Harambam employed a unique method: he immersed himself in the conspiracy community. He frequented popular Dutch conspiracy websites, attended gatherings, and engaged with a diverse array of individuals. Initially, he faced skepticism, as many conspiracy believers viewed researchers and journalists with distrust due to their history of negative portrayals.

Through persistent efforts, he began to gain their trust, especially after drawing parallels between mainstream skepticism and conspiracy beliefs. For instance, when a professor discussed the pharmaceutical industry's ethical lapses, Harambam noted that the concerns echoed those of many conspiracy theorists.

The Many Faces of Conspiracy Belief

Harambam discovered that conspiracy theorists are not a monolithic group. He identified three distinct types: those seeking alternative facts, those viewing information as relative, and those embracing more spiritual interpretations of truth. The theories prevalent today often focus on powerful institutions within society rather than external threats. For example, many believe in a "power elite" manipulating events, and a significant portion of the population subscribes to various conspiracy theories regarding events like the 9/11 attacks or vaccine safety.

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Distrust and Power Dynamics

As Harambam delved deeper, he noted that the conspiracy theories circulating today often relate to the abuse of power and a growing disillusionment with political institutions. Many conspiracy thinkers perceive a world where their concerns, such as the pharmaceutical industry prioritizing profit over health, resonate with broader societal anxieties.

This growing distrust can lead to viewing authority figures as deceptive, resulting in a fertile ground for conspiracy narratives. Harambam's observations suggest that such thinking is often a response to legitimate grievances about governance and societal structure.

The Role of Personal Experience in Conspiracy Beliefs

One's personal experiences can significantly shape their susceptibility to conspiracy thinking. For instance, some individuals may become skeptical of vaccinations after adverse events in their families. Harambam shares the story of Katrijn Depoorter, who, after her son's illness following vaccinations, began to question the motives of pharmaceutical companies and the government.

Similarly, Guilly Koster, a media producer, reflects on his experiences with systemic racism in the broadcasting industry, leading him to scrutinize the official narratives surrounding significant events. For Koster, questioning the mainstream story became a means of reclaiming agency in a world that often marginalized his perspective.

Navigating the Conspiracy Landscape

As Harambam conducted his research, he found himself increasingly empathizing with the conspiracy thinkers he studied. He observed that many theories, while often unfounded, tap into genuine concerns about governmental and corporate accountability. However, he also recognized the risk of uncritical acceptance of such narratives, as discussed by moral philosopher Brecht Decoene, who warns that engaging in discussions about conspiracy theories without adequate preparation can lead one into a maze of misinformation.

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Chapter 2: The Cultural Significance of Conspiracy Theories

The Internet and the Rise of Distrust

Many conspiracy thinkers express discontent with mainstream media, believing it serves the interests of powerful entities rather than the public. Harambam acknowledges that the decline of journalism has left a vacuum filled by alternative narratives proliferating online. This shift has contributed to an environment where conspiracy theories can thrive, offering simple explanations for complex issues.

Understanding the Appeal of Conspiracy Theories

Ultimately, Harambam’s research sheds light on the underlying appeal of conspiracy theories. They provide a framework for understanding a chaotic world, offering clear distinctions between good and evil. This dualistic thinking appeals to a fundamental aspect of human nature, allowing individuals to find meaning and agency in uncertain times.

As he concluded his dissertation, Harambam's reflections indicated that while conspiracy theories might often be based on falsehoods, they resonate with deeper societal truths and anxieties. Their popularity is not merely a sign of irrational thinking but rather a response to genuine feelings of disillusionment and distrust in established systems.

This article was originally published in Dutch in EOS Magazine on February 20, 2018.