How Do Conspiracy Theories Get Their Traction?

The video explores the prevalence and impact of conspiracy theories, from historical events like the Salem witch trials to modern-day beliefs such as QAnon. It highlights how the internet accelerates the spread of misinformation, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The video also discusses the political implications of conspiracy theories, focusing on QAnon's influence and the 2020 U.S. presidential election fraud claims. It warns about the mainstreaming of fringe ideas and their potential societal impact, emphasizing the persistence of conspiracy theories despite contrary evidence.

Which historical event is mentioned as an example of early conspiracy theories?

• The Salem witch trials

• The French Revolution

• The Industrial Revolution

• The American Civil War

What percentage of Americans believe that the government is hiding the existence of aliens?

• 15%

• 27%

• 35%

• 50%

What term did the World Health Organization use to describe the spread of COVID-19 related misinformation?

• Pandemic

• Infodemic

• Epidemic

• Outbreak

What is the central belief of the QAnon conspiracy theory?

• Climate change is a hoax

• The moon landing was faked

• Satan-worshipping pedophiles control media and politics

• Aliens control the government

How many candidates for Congress in 2022 were documented to have supported QAnon?

• 30

• 45

• 60

• 75