During the pandemic, certain individuals began posting daily on Facebook, expressing concerns about the dangers of COVID-19 vaccines and masks, suggesting a perceived attempt at societal control. A science and technology journalist felt compelled to respond to these postings but faced ridicule instead. This situation raised questions about effective communication strategies for addressing such beliefs.
To gain insight into handling similar situations with friends or family who may be drawn to conspiracy theories, the journalist consulted Sander van der Linden, a professor of social psychology at the University of Cambridge. This inquiry was part of a broader examination of how contemporary conspiracy theories are influencing science and technology communication.
The discussion is part of MIT Technology Review’s series titled “The New Conspiracy Age,” which explores the current surge in conspiracy theories. The series aims to provide readers with practical advice and insights on navigating the complexities of misinformation and its impact on society.
Additionally, a subscriber-exclusive roundtable conversation is being hosted by Amanda Silverman, features editor, and Niall Firth, executive editor, featuring conspiracy expert Mike Rothschild. This event is scheduled for November 20, offering an avenue for further exploration of strategies to cope with the challenges posed by conspiracy theories.
In another notable event, MIT Technology Review held its annual EmTech conference in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where discussions included advancements in energy technology, featuring insights from experts like Lucia Tian of Google. This ongoing dialogue highlights the intersection of technology and climate issues amid changing societal dynamics.
Source: https://www.technologyreview.com/2025/11/13/1127911/the-download-ai-to-measure-pain-and-how-to-deal-with-conspiracy-theorists/