Conspiracy theory scholar Joseph Uscinski to deliver Carleton convocation
In his presentation, Uscinski will discuss conspiracy theories, why people believe them, and solutions each of us can do curb their harmful effects.
Joseph Uscinski, a professor at the University of Miami and conspiracy theory expert, will deliver Carleton College’s convocation address on Friday, Jan. 21, from 10:50-11:50 a.m. in Skinner Chapel. In his presentation, he will discuss conspiracy theories, why people believe them, and solutions each of us can do curb their harmful effects.
Uscinski is an associate professor in the University of Miami’s political science department. For more than a decade, he has polled Americans about their beliefs in conspiracy theories. His research has helped uncover why people believed conspiracies, when, and to what effect. His work seeks to answer questions such as: Why do conspiracy theories emerge and why do people believe them? How popular are conspiracy theories and are they on the rise? What role does the internet play in driving conspiracy theorizing? Are conspiracy theories likely to cause violence?
Uscinski’s most notable work is American Conspiracy Theories. The book, co-authored by Joseph M. Parent, examines more than 100,000 letters printed in The New York Times between 1890 and 2010 and analyzes how conspiracy beliefs have changed over time. He is also the author of The People’s News: Media Politics, and the Demands of Capitalism and Conspiracy Theories and the People Who Believe Them. He was named a Fellow of the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry in 2020.
Uscinski earned his B.A. from Plymouth State University, his M.A. from the University of New Hampshire, and his Ph.D. from the University of Arizona.
Carleton convocations are free and open to the public. Masks are required, and visitors are expected to be fully vaccinated and boosted (if eligible) or to have received a negative COVID-19 test result no more than 24 hours before attending an event. Find upcoming events and archived recordings on the Convocations website. For more information, including disability accommodations, call (507) 222-5461.