In person icon Conspiracy Theories, Disinformation, and Society: Insights from Political Sociology and Beyond

Abstract

In contemporary societies, the pervasive influence of conspiracy theories and disinformation has reached unprecedented levels, shaping public discourse, individual attitudes, and political behavior. These phenomena are not merely the products of fringe beliefs but have become mainstream, influencing significant aspects of societal dynamics, from electoral outcomes to online and offline interactions. The entanglement of disinformation and conspiracy theories with modern communication systems, political polarization, and societal fragmentation underscores their critical relevance. Understanding these issues is essential for addressing their implications for democratic governance, social cohesion, and global stability. Th topic invites investigation from diverse methodological perspectives, encompassing political sociology, public opinion studies, linguistic analysis, and political philosophy. In particular, the study of conspiracy theories and disinformation benefits from the integration of political sociology, which provides crucial insights into the societal and structural contexts that underpin these phenomena. Such interdisciplinary approaches enable a nuanced understanding of the mechanisms driving the production, dissemination, and reception of conspiracist and misinformation narratives. This panel seeks to bring together contributions that examine these topics through a range of methodological and theoretical lenses. We welcome empirical analyses of discourses and public opinion, utilizing both case studies and comparative research designs, as well as broader theoretical reflections on the societal and political implications of conspiracy theories and disinformation. Submissions may address elite and mass-level dynamics, the role of digital media in shaping conspiracist narratives, or the socio-political drivers and consequences of misinformation and conspiracism. By fostering dialogue among scholars, this panel aims to deepen our understanding of these pressing challenges and explore potential pathways for mitigating their impact. We invite papers that contribute to advancing the theoretical and empirical knowledge in this field, aiming to generate a robust scholarly exchange on the interplay between disinformation, conspiracy theories, and their broader societal ramifications.

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