Living in MPLS myself, can't resist responding. I attribute this to the populist fever that exists in much of the midwest. It can be really distracting. Ya encounter it here all the time. I think Carrol's strategy of not addressing the details of the conspiracists but sticking to what is the best strategy to ending the war is wise.
The link between conspiracy theory and populism is palpable when it matters most, what requires an appreciation of complexity is disastrously reduced to black and white. When 911 occurred, folks in this state who were 'critical' were howling with rage at Northwest receiving a bailout. All they could see was collusion between government and big bad corporation. If you asked people what would they suggest be done with the who knows how many thousands of flight attendants, pilots, and baggage handlers who would be laid off, it was like you were asking them to think about something they'd never thought about, actual consequences of their politics. Suggest an alternative such as mobilizing to demand public involvement in the terms of the bailout and that really sent them for a loop. Much easier to just see the big bad corporation colluding (i.e. conspiring) with guvment.
Steve
-- Stephen Philion http://stephenphilion.efoliomn2.com/