Full Description
As the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) spread around the world, so did theories, stories, and conspiracy beliefs about it. These theories infected communities from the halls of Congress to Facebook groups, spreading quickly in newspapers, on various social media and between friends. They spurred debate about the origins, treatment options and responses to the virus, creating distrust towards public health workers and suspicion of vaccines.
This book examines the most popular Covid-19 theories, connecting current conspiracy beliefs to long-standing fears and urban legends. By examining the vehicles and mechanisms of Covid-19 conspiracy, readers can better understand how theories spread and how to respond to misinformation.
Contents
Table of Contents
Foreword by Anna Merlan
Introduction
One. Conspiracy Theory 101: A Primer
Two. The "Wuhan Virus": A Cautionary Tale of Origin Conspiracy Theories
Three. Recycling White Power Rumors After the Black Death
Four. "But My Cousin Said": Covid-19 and Black Communities
Five. Harmful Additives: Pre-and Pandemic Anti-Vaccination Thinking
Six. Apocalypse Now, or Later? End Times and the New World Order
Seven. QAnon, Pizzagate and the Pandemic
Eight. Waves of the Future or Waves of Oppression? 5G Fears
Nine. Drawing Lines in Shifting Sand: The Covid-19 Cartoons of Ben Garrison
Ten. When All Is Said—or Done: Examining Ourselves, Talking to Others
Acknowledgments
Author Biographies
Chapter Notes
References Cited
Index
