[lbo-talk] Conspiracy and Popular Culture

Jon Johanning jjohanning at igc.org
Fri Jul 9 06:43:28 PDT 2004


On Jul 8, 2004, at 2:07 PM, Joseph Wanzala quoted:


> In this world, the very denial of a conspiracy's existence becomes
> proof that it exists, and the truth is always "out there."

Exactly. I'm still waiting for someone who will explain to me precisely how anyone with this concept of logic can be regarded as a "serious investigator."


> He believes conspiracy theory has become a thrill for a bored
> subculture, one characterized by its members' reinterpretation of
> "accepted" history, their deep cynicism about contemporary politics,
> and their longing for a utopian future.

Reinterpretation of accepted history, cynicism about politics, and longing for a utopian future are perfectly understandable in today's world and should be respected, but if we respect them, we should respond to them with well-founded reinterpretations, authentic politics, and an image of a "different world" that is indeed possible.

Jon Johanning // jjohanning at igc.org __________________________________ The political spectacle presents itself as a vast inaccessible reality that can never be questioned. The passive acceptance it demands is already effectively imposed by its monopoly of appearances, its manner of appearing without allowing any reply. But the spectacle is not merely a matter of images, nor even of images plus sounds. It is whatever escapes people’s activity, whatever eludes their practical reconsideration and correction. It is the opposite of dialogue.

-- Guy Debord



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