Conspiracy theories have been around for centuries, but with the rise of the internet and social media, they’ve become more prevalent and insidious than ever before. From Big Foot to Flat Earth, these theories often spread like wildfire and can have serious real-world consequences.

At their core, conspiracy theories are rooted in a deep distrust of established institutions and authority figures. They offer a tantalizing alternative explanation for events that may seem unexplainable or uncomfortable to accept. But often, these theories rely on cherry-picked evidence, logical untruths, and outright misinformation to make their case. Josh Emerling shared his thoughts saying, “Conspiracy theories can be a good way for society to question things that they are told and to oppose views on certain things. The danger comes when even proved wrong, people still believe they are right.”

The danger of conspiracy theories lies in their ability to show division and erode trust in crucial institutions, like government and the media. They can lead to dangerous behaviors, like violence and vandalism, as we’ve seen with the QAnon-fueled storming of the U.S. Capitol in 2021.

So, how do we combat the spread of conspiracy theories? It starts with education and critical thinking. We need to teach people how to evaluate sources, fact-check information, and recognize logical fallacies. It’s also important to foster a sense of community and belonging, as people are often drawn to conspiracy theories out of a need for a sense of purpose and identity. Another way to combat the spread was shared by Senior, Noah Jordan stating, “Just don’t be hard headed and accept when you are wrong.”

Ultimately, we all have a responsibility to combat the spread of dangerous conspiracy theories. By staying informed, rejecting baseless claims, and promoting open dialogue, we can create a more informed and united society.