What's Happening?
Charles University's Faculty of Arts will host a workshop titled "The Secret of Secrets? Conspiracy Theories and their Definitions" on December 3, 2026. The event invites academics, independent researchers, students, teachers, and experts in public and civic
education to submit five-minute presentations by November 20. The workshop aims to explore the diverse definitions of conspiracy theories, ranging from classical 'paranoid' styles in American politics to contemporary mythologies and forms of political propaganda. Each 'Diamond Presentation' will be followed by a discussion, culminating in a Conclusory Roundtable for final brainstorming. Participants are encouraged to discuss which definitions they find useful, whether they combine multiple definitions across disciplines, or if they wish to propose new ones. The workshop is part of the international HORIZON project TaCT-FoRSED (Tackling Conspiracy Theories by Fostering Resilience and Political Self-Effiacy in Democracies), funded by the European Union. The organizers will also introduce the newly formed research association ACTOR (Association of Conspiracy Theory Researchers).
Why It's Important?
This workshop is significant as it brings together diverse perspectives to critically examine the evolving understanding and definition of conspiracy theories. In an era where misinformation and disinformation are prevalent, a clearer, more unified understanding of what constitutes a conspiracy theory can aid in developing more effective strategies for public education and civic resilience. By fostering discussion among various stakeholders, from academics to public educators, the event can contribute to a more robust framework for identifying, analyzing, and addressing the societal impacts of such theories. The involvement of the HORIZON project and the launch of ACTOR underscore a growing international effort to combat the negative effects of conspiracy theories on democratic societies, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in this field.
What's Next?
Following the workshop, the insights and discussions generated are expected to contribute to ongoing research within the TaCT-FoRSED project and inform the activities of the newly formed ACTOR association. The organizers, Petr Janeček and Leonardo Schiocchet, will likely synthesize the various perspectives presented to further refine the understanding of conspiracy theories. The project's focus on fostering resilience and political self-efficacy suggests that the outcomes of this workshop could lead to the development of new educational tools or public awareness campaigns aimed at helping citizens critically evaluate information. Future collaborations among the participants and members of ACTOR are also anticipated, potentially leading to more comprehensive studies and publications on the subject.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond the immediate academic discussions, this initiative touches upon deeper societal implications regarding critical thinking and democratic stability. The proliferation of conspiracy theories can erode public trust in institutions, influence political outcomes, and even incite social unrest. By meticulously defining and understanding these phenomena, researchers and educators can better equip individuals to discern fact from fiction, thereby strengthening democratic processes. The workshop's emphasis on 'resilience and political self-efficacy' suggests a proactive approach to empowering citizens, moving beyond simply debunking theories to building a more informed and critical populace. This effort is crucial for maintaining a healthy public discourse and safeguarding the integrity of information in an increasingly complex media landscape.
