Exploring the Complexities of Misinformation and Conspiracy Theories with Dr. Penelope Ironstone - Ep. 2

“When you see a conspiracy theory out there, you should ask, what is it that this conspiracy desires? It desires control, it desires certainty, it desires knowledge about the world, and mostly, it desires the idea of having control over what it is that is happening” (24:00) 

 Misinformation, conspiracy theories, and anxiety culture- these are all concepts that we seem to be hearing more about these days. The constant information that has been disseminated throughout the Covid-19 pandemic has been difficult for many citizens to unpack and understand. On this episode of our podcast, we are joined by Dr. Penelope Ironstone, an Associate Professor in Communication Studies at Wilfrid Laurier University, who’s research specializes in pandemics. Listen in to hear Dr. Ironstone help us understand the complexities and meaning behind many of the contemporary conspiracy theories, a brief history of previous pandemics, and the critical insights she has taken away from this global crisis.

Full music credit:

Dub Eastern by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3682-dub-eastern
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/