What makes something a conspiracy theory? We already know we cannot trust every power that be, every narrative, every explanation. The further down the rabbit hole you go, the worse it gets and the more madness it imparts. On the one hand, calling something a conspiracy theory dismisses the legitimacy of an individual's beliefs. On the other hand, we've likely witnessed the spiral into madness that they can cause in others. In this model, we reintroduce the concept of a Straw Lord Fallacy: a model which can be used to decipher a ideology which captures a person's need for meaning and purpose, driving it into the depths of inactive despair. In their worst light, these things are a dark manipulation, but in their best what good do we find? This episode has been sponsored by Obsidian Arms, a manufacturer of tools, parts and firearms, as well as operating as an OEM shop for those looking to bring excellence to the market. Their Minnesota-based shop builds and cuts parts out of U.S.-sourced materials. Their gunsmith tools, custom firearms, and capabilities can be found at <a href="https://obsidianarms.com/">www.obsidianarms.com</a>Support the REDACTED Culture Cast at <a href="https://redactedculture.locals.com/">redactedculture.locals.com</a> SSP and boutique products at <a href="https://www.redactedllc.com/">redactedllc.com</a> Follow us on Instagram at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/redactedllc/">@redactedllc</a>

What makes something a conspiracy theory? We already know we cannot trust every power that be, every narrative, every explanation. The further down the rabbit hole you go, the worse it gets and the more madness it imparts.   On the one hand, calling something a conspiracy theory dismisses the legitimacy of an individual's beliefs. On the other hand, we've likely witnessed the spiral into madness that they can cause in others.   In this model, we reintroduce the concept of a Straw Lord Fallacy...

260: Defense Against Conspiracy Theories