When Al-Qaeda themselves claimed responsibility, even with overwhelming evidence aside? Why were so many people still reluctant, I was researching about this stuff and was shocked to see people who I respect a lot believe in this

      • Dr_Satan@lemm.ee
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        9 months ago

        Some would call them “independent thinkers”

        What’s more admirable, to conform and be right or to think independently and be wrong?

        • mods_are_assholes@lemmy.world
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          9 months ago

          I think the weaponization of ignorance is a more nuanced subject than a binary choice.

          There is no merit in pushing significantly disproven ‘theories’ like flat earthism.

          • Dr_Satan@lemm.ee
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            9 months ago

            No doubt. But dang, when they call themself right because they quote the most popular authority, I feel a strong impulse to play it wrong.

            I mean, I’d push flat-eartherism just to highlight the absurdity of the popular epistemology. But that’s generally a pearls-before-swine situation.

            • mods_are_assholes@lemmy.world
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              9 months ago

              Funny you mention that, there is a Flat Earth society that was started as a joke with members just arguing for fun.

              They were mostly all replaced by true believers by the late 90s, I got to watch it happen.

              And it plays out the same way in so many ‘ironic stupidity’ forums.

              • Dr_Satan@lemm.ee
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                9 months ago

                The true believers have more zip than the careful contemplators, unfortunately.

                • mods_are_assholes@lemmy.world
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                  9 months ago

                  This is a flaw in human nature that needs to be resolved before we move forward as a species.

                  It is no longer a survival benefit to follow loud, angry people.

                  • Dr_Satan@lemm.ee
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                    9 months ago

                    I dunno man. The ugly sciencey guy is a hard sell. There’s gotta be a third option.

                    Smiling grandfather in nice suit? Sexy fascist lady? Furry?

                    It’s all theater anyway. The mob does not respond to reason.