Conspiracy Theories

June 1, 2024
If outlandish conspiracy theories floating around these days spook you, keep in mind that such theories are nothing new. In the 1300s, conspiracy theories abounded about the Black Death; the infamous Salem witchcraft trials begun in 1692. This academic handbook takes a reasoned look at why conspiracy theories are so powerfully virulent, why they persist, and how they infect America's political and social landscape. Considered here are misinformation and disinformation, weakening credibility of experts, QAnon, the anti-government militia movement, debunking conspiracy theories, and why these theories are promoted. Some believe the scientific community suppresses inconvenient truths. Others embrace conspiracy theories because they offer simple explanations for incomprehensible things. Included are profiles of conspiracy theorists, like Henry Ford, Louis Farrakhan, and Alex Jones, and selected primary sources, like testimony from Senate hearings on domestic terrorism and the "National Day of Reason" declaration. This title provides thoughtful context and perspective on today's conspiracy theories, and is a definite recommendation for academics, college students, and other serious readers.

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November 1, 2024

Gr 10 Up-This reference book offers a Western-focused examination of historical, cultural, religious, and current controversies, research, perspectives, as well as profiles on figures who have shaped, responded to, or fomented various conspiracy theories. This work also provides a wealth of primary documents to bolster its text. Written for readers with a sophisticated vocabulary, this work is not for younger students; it could very well sit on the shelves at a university library and serve its patrons well. Webb adeptly details how belief in conspiracies chip away at a population's trust in the very elements that constitute a society. The author does a great job detailing conspiracies without assigning blame, merely pointing out the flaws in logic inherent to those theories. The suggestions for further reading are extensive as is the resource list. The layout of the book is logical, and there is a glossary and an index that readers will find helpful. VERDICT A solid reference book for curious and astute high school students.-Jean MacDonald

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 1, 2025

Webb (American history, Huntington Univ.; Energy in American History) provides a timely and critical analysis of conspiracy theories and the impact they've had on American society. He traces this topic's history from ancient times to the modern-day and shows how conspiracy theories have shifted from fringe beliefs to mainstream narratives that are present across all socioeconomic demographics in the U.S. His research stresses the real-world consequences of conspiracy beliefs, which, as seen in the politicization of the COVID pandemic and lockdown, can disrupt public health responses and increase societal divisions. He warns of a future in which distrust in institutions, media, and scientific methods leads to "dueling realities," making civil discourse and cooperative problem-solving impossible. This thoughtful and comprehensive overview highlights the dangers of rejecting established facts in favor of narratives that cater to personal biases or worldviews. Each topic is well researched with references listed throughout. An index and useful chronology of events is also provided. VERDICT This compelling reference work is a valuable resource about a potentially dangerous contemporary subject. Give to readers seeking to understand the roots and repercussions of conspiracy thinking.--Gary Medina

Copyright 2024 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.