Conspiratorial narratives as cultural repertoires and methodological tools

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Political Science
• Sociology

Background:

• Conspiratorial narratives are prevalent and impactful, shaping political orientations and mobilization.
• Existing research often dismisses these narratives as illogical or incoherent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the socio-political dynamics behind the prevalence and impact of conspiratorial narratives.
• To explore the emergence, circulation, and effects of these narratives.
• To raise methodological questions regarding the study of conspiratorial narratives.

Main Methods:

• Ethnographic studies in Istanbul and Trabzon, Turkey.
• Analysis of data and field work notes.
• Close scrutiny of conspiratorial narratives rather than dismissal.

Main Results:

• Conspiratorial narratives function as sense-making tools during uncertainty, drawing on cultural repertoires.
• These narratives challenge mainstream discourse, shape subjectivities, and empower individuals as agents.
• The circulation of conspiratorial narratives impacts state-public relationships, often portraying leaders centrally within neoliberal frameworks.

Conclusions:

• Conspiratorial narratives provide valuable insights into actors' agency, group dynamics, and responses to injustice.
• Researchers should engage with these narratives methodologically to understand complex socio-political phenomena.
• Case studies show that less powerful actors may not always antagonize the state.