1211: Conspiracy Theories | Skeptical Sunday

Former conspiracy believer turned skeptic Michael Regilio decodes why people fall for QAnon and flat Earth here on Skeptical Sunday!

Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and a guest break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions. This time around, we’re joined by skeptic, comedian, and podcaster Michael Regilio!

Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1211

On This Week's Skeptical Sunday:

• From medieval blood libel to modern QAnon, conspiracy theories follow the same template: blaming "others" for society's problems through fear and tribalism.
• Brain chemistry drives beliefs. Higher dopamine levels and hyperactive pattern recognition make some people more susceptible to seeing conspiracies where none exist.
• Conspiracy theories destroy families, enable harassment (like Sandy Hook parents), and inspire violence — they're not harmless entertainment.
• Social needs fuel conspiracies. People believe because theories offer community, make them feel special/heroic, and provide simple answers to complex problems.
• Critical thinking is the antidote. Question sources, demand evidence, and remember — real truth doesn't need secret codes or special knowledge, just logic and humility.
• Connect with Jordan on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at [email protected] and let him know!
• Connect with Michael Regilio at Twitter, Instagram, Threads, and YouTube.

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