In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Jenny Rice (Associate Professor of Writing, Rhetoric, and Digital Studies at the University of Kentucky) to explore what we would call conspiracy theories - so a belief that some covert but influential organization is responsible for an unexplained event. And there are plenty to chose from - Sandy Hook, QAnon, Moon landings, even Covid-19 - to some these are all elaborate hoaxes.  Jenny is an expert in ‘conspiracy narratives’ - which we’ll dig into in the podcast.  

Her book - Awful Archives: Conspiracy Theory, Rhetoric, and Acts of Evidence - looks at these topics, particularly the role evidence - or bad evidence - and how it plays out in the fringes of public discourse—pseudo-science, the paranormal, conspiracy theories about 9/11, the moon landing, UFO sightings, and Obama’s birth record. These are all topics of conspiracy theories that millions across the world really believe in.  

In this episode we explore:  • What is a conspiracy theory, or conspiracy narrative? • Where do they originate from - what’s the earliest record you know of? • Why has here been what appears to be an explosion of conspiracy theories into mainstream society over the past few years? • Why are you so interested in conspiracy narratives? • From COVID-19 deniers and QAnon to Sandy Hook and 911, what are the conditions that have allowed these once fringe ideas to flourish? • Is there any one reason - or is it a perfect storm powered by social media, political unrest and global uncertainty? • What risks do these ideas pose to society? • How can we best navigate a conversation with someone who might believe in conspiracy theories in real-life or online? 

 Learn more about Dr Jenny Rice: @jennyrice  

Learn more about Brandon Relph: www.brandonrelph.com 

Learn more about Lizzie Hodgson: www.lizziehodgson.com