I really wish that writers and speakers would replace the phrase “conspiracy theory” with conspiracy fiction. By using the word “theory” it demeans the word and puts it on par with the scientific notion of theory. In short, it makes anyone and everyone who has a thought, intellectually equal.
Oh, this is such a pet peeve of mine! A scientific theory is a framework and explanation that has evidentiary support and has been rigorously tested. It's not just a shot in the dark, or guess. Gravity is a theory!
Sure. I have this theory that the former President conspired with those around him and around the country to cast doubt on and try to overturn a free and fair election.
Granted, it does fit pretty well with my priors about the guy.
I agree but these fictions generally assume the narrative form of a theory. Perhaps "fictional conspiracy theory" or "conspiracy theory fiction"? Or maybe, simpler, just call them lies?
One comment from way out in left field…
I really wish that writers and speakers would replace the phrase “conspiracy theory” with conspiracy fiction. By using the word “theory” it demeans the word and puts it on par with the scientific notion of theory. In short, it makes anyone and everyone who has a thought, intellectually equal.
Oh, this is such a pet peeve of mine! A scientific theory is a framework and explanation that has evidentiary support and has been rigorously tested. It's not just a shot in the dark, or guess. Gravity is a theory!
Somehow I don’t think we can get popular expression to switch to “conspiracy hypothesis” even though it is more accurate.
Irrational conspiracy theory
There are rational ones?
Sure. I have this theory that the former President conspired with those around him and around the country to cast doubt on and try to overturn a free and fair election.
Granted, it does fit pretty well with my priors about the guy.
I don't think that qualifies as we have actual evidence of it.
That's only because you trust your lyin' eyes. ;)
I would like to second or third or tenth this motion.
This.
I personally think the most apt term for QAnon is "murder fantasy"
Qanon - it doesn't get Qazier than this!
Machoerotica
I third this!
That’s excellent!
I agree but these fictions generally assume the narrative form of a theory. Perhaps "fictional conspiracy theory" or "conspiracy theory fiction"? Or maybe, simpler, just call them lies?
Bullshit
Blunt, but accurate.
Conspiracy Trash
Conspiracy absurdity.