Short introduction to this modul Conspiracy theories, prevalent worldwide and across various domains, span from political controversies to scientific claims, often straddling the line between widely accepted and fringe beliefs. They can be challenging to verify, potentially leading to serious consequences when acted upon without factual basis, as seen in the case of the 2020 US election and the subsequent attack on the US Capitol. To navigate this complex landscape, it is imperative to critically analyze such theories and rely on credible sources of information. This module aims to equip individuals with the necessary skills to comprehend and address the multifaceted nature of conspiracy theories through various training activities. Below you will find a list of training activities you can implement with your class/young people with the purpose of gaining knowledge and abilities dealing with various aspects related to conspiracy theories. |
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What is a conspiracy theory?
The information bubble
Why do we believe in conspiracy theories?
Fact checking
What is critical thinking?
How to escape the rabbit hole?
Activity description
Each group is given the full set of the conspiracy cards (cut out). They also have the Conspiracy ranking handout, and they have access to the Worldviews printout on the screen or at the table.
1. Trainer presentation and instruction
5 min.
2. Each group member thinks about their “Anti-worldview” and with that in mind looks at the different conspiracy theories. They try to find a conspiracy theory that “fits” with the ideas of their “anti-worldview”.
This is done individually and in silence.
5 min.
3. Each member then presents the different arguments for “Why the conspiracy theory might be true” to their group.
15 min.
4. Each group picks the Conspiracy theory with the most compelling arguments and presents to the whole class why they think that this conspiracy theory can be explained from that particular worldview.
15 min.
Short Q&A after each presentation.
