Conspiracy Theories: Analyzing Origins and Social Impact
Dive into the fascinating world of conspiracy theories, learn to identify, evaluate, and even create your own in this engaging course.
Dive into the fascinating world of conspiracy theories, learn to identify, evaluate, and even create your own in this engaging course.
This course offers a comprehensive exploration of conspiracy theories, their impact on society, and their historical context. Led by Matthew Lasar from the University of California, Santa Cruz, students will examine famous conspiracy theories like The Protocols of the Elders of Zion, AIDS origin theories, and 9/11 controlled demolition claims. The course delves into the psychological and sociological aspects of conspiracy theories, their relationship to historical events, and their influence on public discourse. Through a mix of video lectures, quizzes, discussions, and a creative final project, learners will develop critical thinking skills to identify, analyze, and evaluate conspiracy theories. The curriculum covers key topics such as Richard Hofstadter's "paranoid style," World War I conspiracies, JFK assassination theories, and celebrity death conspiracies. By the end of the course, participants will not only understand the mechanics of conspiracy theories but also create their own, gaining unique insights into the nature of these pervasive narratives.
4.4
(32 ratings)
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What you'll learn
Identify conspiracy theories and their common characteristics
Evaluate and critique conspiracy theories using critical thinking skills
Understand the historical context and societal impact of major conspiracy theories
Analyze the psychological and sociological factors that contribute to belief in conspiracy theories
Explore the relationship between conspiracy theories and legitimate historical conspiracies
Examine the role of media and technology in the spread of conspiracy theories
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
4 Hours PreRecorded video
7 quizzes,1 peer review
Access on Mobile, Tablet, Desktop
FullTime access
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There are 7 modules in this course
This course offers a fascinating journey into the world of conspiracy theories, exploring their origins, impact, and enduring appeal. Through seven comprehensive modules, students will examine famous conspiracy theories ranging from historical events like World War I to celebrity deaths. The curriculum covers key concepts such as Richard Hofstadter's "paranoid style" and delves into notorious theories like The Protocols of the Elders of Zion and JFK assassination theories. Participants will learn to identify conspiracy theories, understand their psychological and sociological underpinnings, and critically evaluate their validity. The course culminates in a unique project where students create their own conspiracy theory, providing hands-on experience in understanding the mechanics of these narratives. Throughout the course, learners will develop critical thinking skills essential for navigating the complex landscape of information and misinformation in the modern world.
Introduction
Module 1 · 1 Hours to complete
Richard Hofstadter and the "Paranoid Style"
Module 2 · 1 Hours to complete
Protocols of the Elders of Zion
Module 3 · 1 Hours to complete
World War I
Module 4 · 1 Hours to complete
JFK Assassination
Module 5 · 1 Hours to complete
Marilyn Monroe & Princess Diana Conspiracies
Module 6 · 1 Hours to complete
Conclusion
Module 7 · 2 Hours to complete
Fee Structure
Payment options
Financial Aid
Instructor
Historian and Educator Specializing in Community Media and Conspiracy Theories
Matthew Lasar was raised in coastal New Jersey and Manhattan during the 1960s, where a lecture about Richard Nixon's alleged involvement in JFK's assassination sparked his interest in evidence gathering. He earned a BA from the City College of New York, an MA in history from UC Davis, and a PhD from Claremont Graduate School. Lasar has authored three books on community media and currently teaches courses on conspiracy theories, the Cold War, and the FBI at UC Santa Cruz. He resides in San Francisco with his spouse, Sharon Wood, and their cats, Dora and Molly.
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4.4 course rating
32 ratings
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