This thread is a continuation of an interesting discussion in the Shoutbox. Maybe continuing it here can offer new perspectives and make it easier to read/follow.
The discussion began with an article (LINK) describing the traumatic events a father, Lenny Pozner, went through after his son was killed in the Sandy Hook shooting of 2012. The article highlights part of the media coverage around the event, but focuses on the virulent reaction Pozner experienced from many members of the public, who went so far as to accuse him of faking his son's death and send him death threats for it.
Next, flat-earthers were mentioned, as well as some ways to approach someone who brings up a ridiculous conspiracy theory.
According to Dictionary.com, a
conspiracy theory can be:
Quote: 1. a theory that explains an event as being the result of a plot by a covert group or organization; a belief that a particular unexplained event was caused by such a group.
2. the idea that many important political events or economic and social trends are the products of secret plots that are largely unknown to the general public.
Most people use "conspiracy theory" to refer to alternate interpretations and/or causes of past, present or future events. These interpretations are not widely acknowledged as being valid, but are considered valid within the minority groups who believe in these theories.
Now, it's no secret that some of the more infamous conspiracy theories carry a lot of negative baggage as they relate to sensitive content - for example, Holocaust denial; I admit I haven't been interested in researching it further, as I find it preposterous and insensitive, to say the least. But still, there are people out there who do believe in it and try to bring others to their side.
So, there are several questions one can ponder when discussing conspiracy theories:
- At which point do they stop being mildly entertaining "what ifs" and become insensitive/erasing beliefs, or even dangerous to the believer?
- If you believe them to be ridiculous, would you try to change one's favorable opinion of them?
- If you don't believe in conspiracy theories and one was proven to be true, would you be more open towards them?
- In a world where you can find a source to validate any of your beliefs, how far can sources go to prove one's point?
I'd be happy to know your thoughts, as this is quite an interesting topic!
