The Worrying Rise of the Conspiracy Theorists

The last decade or so has seen science drop down in the public estimations – things that were previously taken seriously such as vaccinations has now started to be replaced with conspiracy theories and information being spread around social media as facts, which are not true and have no foundations in science.

The rise of anti-vaccination views

This particular problem, with the people who shun vaccinations who are known as ‘Anti-Vaxxers’ has led to outbreaks of diseases like measles, which had previously been hugely reduced due to a successful vaccine programme.

How fake news spreads on social media

This ‘Fake News’ rise and the speed with which anything can be passed around social media, has seen all manner of seemingly bizarre and scientifically unfounded ideas take root in large parts of society  – from flat earth believers (yes really, people who believe that the Earth is flat) to people who believe that the moon landings were faked has spread worryingly quickly around the world.

People who work in science, however are needed now more than ever – from research scientists, to American lab relocation services to laboratory technicians – science is more essential than ever to combat two of the biggest threats to humanity – both the coronavirus pandemic and the global warming crisis.

Why science matters more than ever

It is incredibly important that the human race starts to pay attention once again to the science, rather than the myths and untruths shared around on social media. Otherwise, we face an existential crisis that may mean in 50 years or so, there may not be much left of the human race, or our planet.

Summary

This article looks at the rise of conspiracy theories and anti-vaccination views spreading through social media, linking this trend to outbreaks of diseases like measles that vaccination programmes had previously reduced. It argues that scientists and researchers are needed more than ever to counter misinformation, warning that ignoring science could have serious long-term consequences for people and the planet.

Questions this article raises

• How has social media contributed to the spread of anti-vaccination views?
• What diseases have seen outbreaks linked to falling vaccination rates?
• Why does the article see science as essential to tackling coronavirus and climate change?