Republic of Lies Background

Republic of Lies Background

Although Republic of Lies: American Conspiracy Theorists and Their Surprising Rise to Power isn't all that well-known, it is certainly interesting. Broadly, it examines famous conspiracy theories (Pizzagate and the Birther myth, for example, are two of the modern conspiracy theories the book discusses) and those who propagate and ultimately, believe them. She first traces the theory's origins, and then tries to explain why people create those theories - and why they believe them (she says this is because of the "lack of a social safety net, inadequate education, bitter culture wars, and years of economic insecurity.") She is, however, always skeptical of the theories and never gives them "validity."

Regardless, Republic of Lies received very positive reviews when it was released. Kirkus Reviews said that the book is "A lucid, well-researched look at a slippery topic." NPR called the book "chilling" but said that many of the chapters deserved "deeper analysis."

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