COVID-19 and the rise of the conspiracy: an examination of COVID related conspiracies using Durkheimian concepts
COVID-19 and the rise of the conspiracy: an examination of COVID related conspiracies using Durkheimian concepts
Author
Wesenberg, Madison
Faculty Advisor
Date
2021
Keywords
COVID-19 , pandemics , conspiracy theories , Durkheim , social media
Abstract (summary)
This paper examines the rise of COVID-19 related conspiracy theories through a Durkheimian lens.
Specifically, Durkheim’s concepts of anomie, collective consciousness, and religion can be useful in
interpreting the increased participation in conspiracy theory groups. It examines how social distancing
measures and government restrictions have led to increased anomie, and how conspiracy theory groups
have been used to mitigate this anomic state by introducing shared beliefs and norms. These groups have
also created opportunities for people to come together physically and virtually, sharing common beliefs
and goals creating a distinct collective consciousness. This paper also focuses on social media’s role in
perpetuating conspiracy theories and how online communities create an environment where it becomes
difficult to decipher fact from fiction. It also focuses on how online communities foster group cohesion
in a virtual environment. In addition, the paper also likens conspiracy groups to religious ones using
Émile Durkheim’s definition.
Publication Information
Wesenberg, Madison. 2021. "COVID-19 and the Rise of the Conspiracy: An Examination of COVID Related Conspiracies Using Durkheimian Concepts." Crossing Borders: Student Reflections on Global Social Issues 3(1). doi:10.31542/cb.v3i1.2248
DOI
Notes
Item Type
Student Article
Language
English
Rights
Attribution-NonCommercial (CC BY-NC)
