Inaugural lecture Prof. dr. Jan Willem van Prooijen
Appointed professor of "Radicalization, extremism, and conspiracy thinking" in the Faculty of Law
"De radicale complotdenker"
Conspiracy theories play a clear role in radicalization. For instance, a remarkable number of Dutch people believe in a “malevolent elite” whose goal is to oppress or enslave the population. A recent report by the AIVD highlights that such anti-institutional extremism poses a substantial threat to the democratic rule of law. Conspiracy theories have also played a role in terrorist attacks such as those in El Paso (Texas) and Christchurch (New Zealand).
What drives the radical conspiracy thinker? This inaugural lecture will explore how conspiracy theories polarize people by emphasizing the superiority of one’s own group while simultaneously demonizing other groups. As a result, conspiracy theories can make individuals feel like heroes within their own narrative, playing a vital role in an epic struggle between good and evil. In this context, the end justifies the means. Consequently, conspiracy theories can contribute to rule-breaking, rejection of democracy, illegal forms of protest, populism, and even violence.
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