Conspiracy theories propose that certain significant world events are caused by the secret and deliberate actions of powerful malevolent groups. This seminar will discuss the structure of conspiracy theories, how we tell them apart from real conspiracies, which also exist, and the psychological and social mechanisms and processes that give rise to them. We will address questions concerning what kinds of people and groups might be more likely to be drawn into conspiratorial thinking, how conspiracy theories spread across populations, and what their consequences are. We will also address what possible antidotes or remedies might exist or be developed in response to this kind of thinking.
2
UnitsLetter
Grading1, 2, 3
PasstimeNone
Level LimitLetters and science
CollegeGreat class with interesting topics. It's a super easy GE if you need it, but I would highly recommend the class as it's easy to get a good grade simply by trying and doing your assignments. Professor was very kind and easy to talk to at office hours, in addition to being very engaging at lectures. Lectures are posted online if necessary!
Does a very good job at making you interested in course content and she covers all information clearly. You don't have to go, however, as all slides are posted and are all that is needed to complete weekly reflections and quizzes.
Seriously such an awesome professor. Lectures aren't mandatory but would definitely recommend going anyways as some of the quiz questions reflect topics/videos viewed in class, and there's cat videos!!! Sections are pretty boring but there's no midterm or final and the weekly quizzes/assignments are relatively easy. Take this class!
Definitely a really easy yet interesting GE to take. I really enjoyed Professor Tamsin, she seems very intelligent yet witty. I hope I have the chance to take another one of her classes in the future.
100% take this class - it's easy and super fascinating. Dr. German is an engaging lecturer and uses both text on the slideshow and vids of psych experiments to teach. Also gives multiple breaks each lecture. She is super accessible and helpful during office hours. Everyone I know loves the class.
Super easy GE. Grade consists of weakly quizzes and worksheets. No final exam and all lectures are posted online with recordings. Definitely recommend for an easy GE.