Conspiracy Theories and the People Who Believe Them is a non-fiction text written by Joseph E. Uscinski, where he analyses the significance and prevalence of conspiracy theories in recent history. In this text, he explains how conspiracy theories play a greater part in international and national politics and discourse than is often thought. This idea is introduced immediately with the opening passage of the text: "Conspiracy theories are not fringe ideas, tucked neatly away in the dark corners of society. They are politically, economically, and socially relevant to all of us."
In this book, Uscinski does not shy away from revealing the extreme consequences of conspiracy theories, including bloodshed, violence, terrorism, and panic. This being said, Uscinski maintains that conspiracy theories do not only attract extremists but are also believed by seemingly normal people. Indeed, according to Uscinski, conspiracy theories subtly influence everything from political discourse to scientific advancements.
In this book, Uscinski provides a simultaneously in-depth and broad analysis of conspiracy theories and the role they have played throughout history. He analyses the theory and philosophy of conspiracy theories and why people might be attracted to them but also points to practical and historical examples of conspiracy theories at work. As such, this makes for a comprehensive and eclectic examination of conspiracy theories.
