The Philosophy of Conspiracy Theories: Concepts, Methods and Theory

The book explores the irrationality of conspiracy theory and belief, proposing solutions to long-standing issues in the academic debate. It features a critical history of conspiracy theory research, discusses key issues such as what counts as a conspiracy theory, and examines how political views affect conspiracy theories. It also proposes unifying conspiracy theory research under one theoretical framework, particularism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the realm of conspiracy theory research, offering a cutting-edge philosophical exploration that sheds light on the enigmatic nature of conspiracy theory and belief. Through a critical examination of the historical development of conspiracy theory theory, it emphasizes the pivotal contributions of the 'first generation of philosophers' in this field. Additionally, it addresses a range of crucial issues, including the definition and characteristics of conspiracy theories, the identity of conspiracy theorists, the varied understandings of these concepts among academics and the general public, and the question of whether conspiracy theories are inherently suspect or whether it is ever reasonable to be a conspiracy theorist.

Building upon this foundation, the book explores how individuals' political perspectives shape their beliefs about conspiracy theories and their attitudes toward conspiracy theory research. It examines the interplay between political ideologies and conspiracy theories, raising important questions about the potential influence of political beliefs on the formation and acceptance of conspiracy theories. Furthermore, the book proposes innovative solutions to address long-standing challenges in the broader academic debate on conspiracy theories, advocating for a unifying theoretical framework called particularism.

This volume serves as a valuable resource for philosophers and social scientists engaged in the study of conspiracy theory theory and its implications for research. It also appeals to a broader audience, including individuals who are interested in understanding the complexities and controversies surrounding conspiracy theories and their societal impact. The book was originally published as a special issue of Social Epistemology, further contributing to the ongoing discussion and exploration of this intriguing field.

Weight: 440g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032711386