Sociology of Conspiracy Theories and Misinformation

This course explores conspiracy theories using a paradigmatic approach. We will draw upon the lessons of critical theory, social psychology, theories of postmodernity, and the philosophy of science. By examining case studies like the idea the moon landing was a hoax, belief that the JFK assassination was part of a government plot, QAnon and Pizzagate, or vaccine conspiracies, students will understand how we might understand the origin, spread, and persistence of conspiracy theories. This is less of a course on finding “the truth” about JFK’s assassination, and more of a course on understanding the way we understand and construct knowledge (i.e. truth), as well as understanding how social structures also shape beliefs. Recommended: SOCIOL 1000 and 3 credits of another sociology course, preferably research methods.