Conspiracy Nation: The Dangerous World of Australian Conspiracy Theories

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'There are microchips in vaccines'; '5G spreads COVID-19'; 'the Australian government is hiding a list of powerful predators.' It's easy to dismiss these as fringe concerns or imported concepts, but conspiratorial ideas are gaining traction with everyday Australians, and being wielded by those in power. The tragic event in Porepunkah, Victoria just weeks ago serves as a stark reminder of how dangerous conspiracy theories can become when they move from online forums into real-world violence. Let's gather to discuss why individuals are drawn to conspiracy theories, how these beliefs spread in communities, and what we can do to combat their harmful effects in our society.

Book: Conspiracy Nation—Exposing the Dangerous World of Australian Conspiracy Theories (2025) by Ariel Bogle and Cam Wilson.

Optional Supplementary Book: Conspiracy—Why People Believe in the Irrational (2022) by Michael Shermer.

In our book this month, Ariel Bogle and Cam Wilson, both experienced Australian journalists, trace the journey of conspiratorial thinking from internet forums to mainstream political discourse, examining how local Australian conspiracy movements have emerged alongside imported theories from overseas. Through boots-on-the-ground reporting, the authors meet the people dedicated to living and spreading these ideas, those who have been left reeling by their impact, and those who are fighting back.

From Port Arthur and QAnon, the rise of 'wellness' influencers and 'sovereign citizen' gurus, to the delusions that inspired the Wieambilla murders in Queensland, Bogle and Wilson show the devastating consequences of unchecked lies and radicalisation, and make a compelling case that by ignoring the looming threat of conspiratorial thinking, we put our community at risk.

For those interested in delving deeper into the psychological and sociological mechanisms behind conspiracy theories, I would also suggest looking at Conspiracy: Why People Believe in the Irrational (2022) by Michael Shermer. While this book takes an American-centric approach, Shermer provides valuable insights into the cognitive biases, pattern-seeking behaviours, and social psychology that make people susceptible to conspiratorial thinking. Drawing on decades of research in skeptical inquiry, he examines why otherwise rational people can fall prey to irrational beliefs. Furthermore, given that sometimes conspiracy theories do turn out to be real, he also proposes ways to determine their truth value and offers strategies for critical thinking that will complement our main book well.

As usual, you're strongly encouraged to read the book. Having read it will give you much more to contribute to our discussion. Links to additional resources including podcasts and interviews with the authors are also available below that you may wish to explore.

So, join us for a drink (and optional meal) at 6.30pm Monday, 10th November on the 2nd floor (i.e. up two flights of stairs) at the Keg & Brew Hotel, Surrey Hills. The Keg & Brew is close to Central Station and the Light Rail.

We hope to see you there!

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These are just optional links to consider. Feel free to pass on other useful links in the discussion section.

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