1. What is Merlan’s operating definition of a conspiracy theory? [Right There]  

It’s a belief that a group of people working in secret against the common good for their own benefit, and most often of the time their actions may cause a negative effect on society. 

2. Merlan says that conspiracy thinking has been part of American culture and governance since it’s very beginning. Summarize her reasons for thinking so and explain what she thinks is new about conspiracy theories in the last decade or so. [Pull It Together]

He does believe that conspiracy thinking has embedded in American culture for a long time. However, none of them are similar to what’s happening in recent years. During the era of Trump, his campaign are so deeply involved with conspiracy theories. A lot of speech or statement he gives is related to a famous American conspiracy theorist, Alex Jones. He and Jones are mutual fans. It’s common to see that he use conspiracy theories as a weapon to attack his political enemies. One thing I could not understand is, his supporters claim that he is a truth-teller which I think could be a part of this answer, but I’m not sure. He also claims that people who master lies and half-truth are awarded by power and prominence. 

3. What are the characteristics of the times in which conspiracy theory tends to survive? [Right There + Pull It Together]

Times, where social structure is unstable and massive fundamental changes has been made, can stimulate a rapid amount of conspiracy thinking between the peoples. He found that people who are lack power and got stuck in their life often desperate to find someone to blame. Government and officers often are the prime victim. During a difficult time, people will have a lack of confidence in our institutions and often questioning the value and permanence of the society.  

4. How does Merlan categorize the different types of people who tend to believe medical conspiracy theories? [Right There]

 was interested in understanding why this new surge of conspiracism has appeared, knowing that historically, times of tumult and social upheaval tend to lead to a parallel surge in conspiracy thinking

People who question and frustrated about U.S expensive dysfunctional medical system. People who could not afford it. People who worried about their vaccines are not safe children. People who believe doctors are in big drugs corporation’s pocket. 

5. What are the [multiple] reasons that Anna Merlan uses to answer the question: “Why are we addicted to conspiracy theories”? [Pull It Together]