Why trolls, extremists: spread conspiracy theories they don't believe

[jedishrfu]

https://arstechnica.com/science/202...spread-conspiracy-theories-they-dont-believe/

There has been a lot of research on the types of people who believe conspiracy theories, and their reasons for doing so. But there’s a wrinkle: My colleagues and I have found that there are a number of people sharing conspiracies online who don’t believe their own content.

They are opportunists. These people share conspiracy theories to promote conflict, cause chaos, recruit and radicalize potential followers, make money, harass, or even just to get attention.


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[Baluncore]

And then there are a few opportunists, who make a steady income by debunking the charlatans. It takes two to tango.
https://www.youtube.com/@CreakyBlinder

 

[sandy stone]

Hmmm. I can't help but be reminded of this.