Books: Conspiracies & Conspiracy Theories: What We Should and Shouldn't Believe - and Why by Michael Shermer

Today’s book recommendation is an audiobook by @michaelshermer . During times of disaster, conspiracies abound. Shermer gives a respectful look at why people believe in conspiracy theories and how to think through news with skepticism.

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Description

Millions of Americans buy into conspiracy theories. Did you know that...

• 81 percent of Americans believe more than one person was responsible for the assassination of John F. Kennedy?

• 1/3 of this country thinks 9/11 was an “inside job” by the Bush administration?

• 21 percent believes aliens crash-landed in Roswell and are being hidden in Area 51?

• 7 percent are convinced that the moon landing was faked?

What causes some people to advocate these unfounded—often disproven—ideas as reality? And why is the power of conspiracies so compelling that they can motivate people to act, some even participating in acts of violence?

In this eye-opening Audible Original, Professor Michael Shermer, publisher of Skeptic magazine and the host of the Science Salon podcast, takes you through some of the most prevalent conspiracy theories in history, giving you a clear understanding of how and why they came about, who was likely to believe and perpetuate them, and the reality behind these beliefs.

Whether you are looking for the truth regarding popular conspiracy theories; are fascinated by the psychology of why people buy into them; or are interested in how they shaped and were shaped by history, this course will provide you all the tools you need to better understand the pervasiveness of conspiracy theories.