Birds Aren’t Real? How a Conspiracy Takes Flight | Peter McIndoe | TED

[@wadeammons7171]

Wearing a hat that said “Birds aren’t real” and a shirt that said “bird watching goes both ways” was honestly one of the best conversation starters when I was in college.

[@hawthornfarm]

I had a "hot bird on bird action" shirt I always wore birdwatching.

[@briankeller9848]

I have that same shirt. Lit 🔥

[@RenegadeContext]

😂😂😂 "bird watching goes both ways" OMG that's genius

[@sroake]

I wear a Birds Aren't Real sticker on my hard hat. It has been an excellent conversation starter in the trades

[@fariesz6786]

we _are_ real, but indeed goes both ways. we know your secrets, you filthy little mammals ( ")

[@bobbyrobmaxey]

I’ve been a bird truther for years and couldn’t be more thrilled to see Peter with his own TED talk. Goes to show how well-crafted satire is so uniquely powerful in its ability to get to the heart of issues

[@joeb134]

Yea well I remember being homeless and a homeless person who was already on the edge of sanity wholeheartedly believing that birds weren't real.

[@alakani]

​​@@joeb134 Thank you for actually paying attention and not being awful. It's not funny to make crazy people crazier on purpose, it just spreads like cancer until bystanders gets hurt. fMRI studies showed trolls are actual psychopaths, even the "funny" ones

[@realglutenfree]

@@joeb134 How did you get out of this?

[@jayjya]

The satire is him saying it isn't real.

[@YvonTripper]

Is a "bird truther" a "birther"?

[@Rudykawa]

I love when a talk is structured like initially being goofy, playful, fun to reel the audience in than to suddenly shift to a more insightful and profound message when the audience is all in on the talk and will absorb the message. Well done.

[@MrBrokenazs]

Maybe the next one he does will be on the false origins or Russia Gate, or the CIA assassination of JFK/terming the conspiracy theorists for questioning it

[@LesNessman2001]

I’m actually not sure what the message was. Gullible people are snow flakes and need safe spaces? They need to be considered, though they would NEVER do it in return? Their damage should be tolerated, but I’m the bad guy? No, I got it! This is a metaphor for religion. It’s obviously bs and horribly damaging but, since people find camaraderie, I need to suck it up. But I’m the snow flake? But I’m the damned one? Laugh at them, they’ll figure it out.

[@Ninja9JKD]

Nothing profound here, just a fed poisoning the well of truth

[@Rudykawa]

@@Ninja9JKD who hurt you? want to talk about it?

[@bgleadbetter]

@@Ninja9JKD- well played sir.

[@thewillrog]

Followed this over the years, really was surprised by the eloquence of his final take away. Never thought chanting birds arent real could lead to a genuine conversation about inclusion and community. 10/10

[@LeCharles07]

Dude deserves a Tony award. He was acting on the world stage for years and played the part so well he fooled the mainstream.

[@knott4me561]

Correction...he fooled the mainstream in America. Not very difficult

[@dutchraider2]

@@knott4me561 That's where you're wrong. Although one could argue that the bar might be lower in America, that's not the point. Religion is the first and foremost conspiracy theory and it's all over the world. And for the exact same reasons mentioned in the video.

[@JaegerDreadful]

That's because the media (not just Mainstream) in America is all about making money and getting sensation news out, and not so much about factual news. It needs to be believable, not factual. And this American trend is becoming more a thing in other countries aswell, and I think social media has a big role in this aswell. Which is why I am very happy that companies like X and Meta are seriously thinking of leaving the EU market.

[@rorychivers8769]

I can't wait for the moment that we make the US realise that "Mainstream" isn't actually a thing and is something that only exists in their own imagination, I mean put yourself in my shoes, it's honestly insulting to me to insinuate that I can be fooled by a ragtag band of Kardashians and failed Casino owners. You guys had me at Bill Hicks, and you had to go and push it.

[@sageantone7291]

Paid shill.

[@CupUhhJo]

This has to qualify as a top ten social experiment for me. A silly thing about conspiracy theorists becomes a jump point about basic human interaction and eliminating ostracism. This was super dope.

[@beeble2003]

Didn't you listen? The government eliminated ostriches years ago!

[@brokenrecord3523]

Good social experiment. Right up there with the Stanford prison one. Piss people off, spread disinformation, lie and then feel misunderstood because they fell for the BS.

[@DiogoGomesPercussion]

But why would everyone waste time with dumb people. Being “compassionate” over people who actually would believe something this stupid is acknowledging that their time is more valuable than everyone else’s

[@aliensarerealttsa6198]

Define conspiracy and theory and the source. Then explain to me why you're saying the opposite of what you mean.

[@brokenrecord3523]

@@aliensarerealttsa6198 🧌

[@WeirdTippy]

This is the real reason why Twitter became X. Don't let Elon convince you otherwise. Hats off to you sir, brilliant work!

[@abeautifuldayful]

Keep your hat on when birds fly.

[@mccreatc]

@@abeautifuldayfullmao

[@notmeus1968]

​@@abeautifuldayfulonly if it's tinfoil

[@duncanwallace7760]

Haven't you seen the "X - parrot" skit by Monty Python? Most people think they're joking, but it's a warning.

[@saladien9987]

X is finally less leaning to the left. I think thats already worth the billions spend on it.

[@robotortoise]

I thought this was going to be a continuous bit, but him dropping it halfway through and explaining it from another perspective was fascinating and really interesting. He changed my views on conspiracy theorists!

[@wilsjane]

Perhaps the strangest conspiracy theory was covid. We were hit with a nasty first mutation animal virus that mutated as a result of people in China eating infected meat raw. Once it mutated by long exposure in the stomach, it could then spread airborne and we had no immunity. With such viruses, one in a thousand people will need ICU treatment in order to survive, so their was a danger of the hospitals being overwhelmed. Governments simply needed to slow the spread down, so restrictions were needed. Alarmist figures were put out in the media and while they were true, they did not paint a complete picture. Taking the UK for example. We were being told that up to 900 people per day were dying with covid in their system, which was true. But 2 important facts that we were NOT told, is that every day 1,500 people die in the UK (roughly equivalent to the birth rate) and 90% of people who die contract the current virus during their final 72 hours. Now we have the figures, the death rate in 2020 was 1.7% up on 2019 and lower than 2017.... 2019 had the lowest death rate since records began. The measures worked, so was this a conspiracy or not. Death is an unsavory subject, so the scaremongers highlighted people who were in good health who died. This happens a few times every day and is called a sudden unexplained death. Those figures were no higher during covid.

[@FragEightyfive]

I had to check I thought this was a TEDx that they meant to black hole, but it was a legit TED talk about a legit social observation.

[@bertjesklotepino]

I hate labeling people, don't you? It makes it so easy to act as if certain people are all the same. It makes it so easy to condemn entire groups of people. Take for example the label Hamas. Who are they? Show me the pictures of the leaders of the group that is called Hamas. Etc etc. Or, what about the people who have never believed a word the Government told them about what happened on the 22nd of November 1963? There are dozens of Witnesses who have been ignored. 22 policeofficers for example. And i could go on and on and on. Like this for example: We are told Lee was a nobody and wanted to make a name for himself. He wanted to be remembered. Right? So why did he flee? Why did he proclaim to be a patsy? Why did he act as if he had no clue what was going on? Why did he hide the rifle? Why did he not hide the shells? Why are there 3 shells. The third shot was enough, so why did he chamber another round? Why did he not call the media to ensure there would be cameras covering his actions? Ruby was lucky with that, wasn't he? Live tv. (or eh, yeah, sure, well, not live at that time, but let's call it that) There is a heck of a lot of stuff that needs answering before we can conclude Lee actually did it. Hence why even the Government says Allegedly (on the plaque outside the TSBD). If the truth about that case was told, why did they need to withhold documents from the public for 75 years? Why was the public not allowed to see the Zapruder film for 12 years? Did they want to prevent the public from seeing the obvious? But, i guess all of this must mean that i also believe the earth is flat, right? After all, i am a conspiracy theorist. And those people believe the earth is flat, Elvis is on the moon sipping tea together with MJ, and ET is running the show with his Lizard people. Right? I think those who say something you said have not learned much. And this guy, Peter, has not learned much either. Because it seems to me he, and you, have fallen for the trap of labeling. Gonna end it with this: Terrorists. Who are terrorists according to you is a legit question i ask you. Because Nelson Mandela was seen as a terrorist once. Remember? Labels. I hate labeling people.

[@bertjesklotepino]

o btw, i guess the admission by the Government in their own documents on how they should deal with Conspiracy Theorists after 1963, that is just a conspiracy theory. Even if the documents exist in which they talk about how to handle the situation, it does not matter. People who live today do not care about such. They care about labeling. As we can see right here: "He changed my views on conspiracy theorists" "Hamas is who we are targeting. But they hide in tunnels. So we bomb the buildings on the surface. And they hide behind babies which they beheaded first, human shields" It is RIDICULOUS that people still use labels. And a sad world it is creating, for sure. It is not going to solve the problems. Answers might. Discussion might. Labeling, condemning, violence (which is often a result of it all), it wont solve anything. And so, Robotortoise, glad to see your views were changed. That did not take much effort, it seems. In my opinion.

[@rickknight1810]

Fascinating, especially the way he pivots to reflections on how NOT to deal with seemingly irrational beliefs. Treat people with respect, even when your first reaction is to dismiss or ridicule them. It's not easy.

[@arduous222]

I was only expecting something like the critique on the infodemic, irresponsibility of media, and so on, but this surpassed expectation. One of the best talks I've seen in this year.

[@mixingitupwithmina93]

“If it flies, it spies.” Hilarious! But the message is excellent - people will listen when they feel they have been heard. Shaming others won’t change the world but listening then sharing with others will. This guy is brilliant.

[@davidgiancoli2106]

Thank you for stating the message of this TED talk more clearly than the speaker did. It is something we all have to keep working at. When people feel that they are listened to, they stop trying so hard to be heard. Then maybe they will start listening, too, and a real conversation can begin.

[@Deathwish026]

its not others that get shamed. its there crazy beliefs that should be looked at as crazy. they just inturn feel attacked. but if there not willing to look at evidence outside the crazyness should the conspiracy be left alone ? no. because then you get to a point in time where its not been ridiculed and so many believe in the nonsense that it becomes law for women to lose the right to there own bodily autonomy. if a person is not willing to look hor truth in facts then they should not be coddled with there insane beliefs.

[@AlanWinterboy]

Sounds good in theory, and agree that shaming people doesn't do anything but reinforce, but the mind that embraces crazy conspiracy stuff does NOT usually open up just cuz it's finally been heard.

[@enyichi]

I agree with you @AlanWinterBoy. With what the speaker of the Ted Talk said, how do you think we can address belonging, or community. Like, what do you think are actual steps we can take. Asking genuinely

[@l_gomez]

⁠​⁠​⁠​⁠​⁠@@AlanWinterboy The mind that embraces "crazy conspiracy stuff" can be disarmed. When people (all people) feel seen and heard, they lower their walls, a rapport is built, and trust can grow. I agree that it won't take feeling heard over just one conversation, but that's because building trust takes time. People (conspiracy theorists) can accept and integrate new ideas and ways of thinking because they trust the information they are receiving from the person they trust (non-conspiracy theorist). There's a reason why therapy works. Validating people and making room for *their* realities builds a kind of trust that, eventually, means that person will trust you enough to let you lead them in a new direction

[@JamesOKeefe-US]

I relistened from 10:25 to the end multiple times (not that the rest of the talk wasn't excellent, it was). But this section is an immensely articulate discussion of the issues we face today. It is compassionate, unifying and reasonable. So well done!

[@pgpc6448]

Fact. Vulnerability is something most humans don’t understand.

Alternative truth is not a thing though.

[@ChubbyUnicorn]

Agreed. The truth was a real gut punch. He has a great point.

[@johnjeffreys6440]

I knew it was a fib. Only God can make the birds sing.

[@joythought]

James, yes, great to be reminded that when I judge anyone for their point of view I am diminishing my ability to influence them because I am forgetting that first of all we are all vulnerable with the need to be accepted as we are by those around us. That's work that I often forget to do with strangers. I appreciated his message. Good to read your comment as well

[@banshee6969]

I've been following the journey of birds aren't real since Vsauce introduced them and I was wondering what the end goal would be. This man, instead relying on the very internet that forces people to believe in alternate truths went out and actually understood what it's like to be a part of a community that believes otherwise and how that affects the society and the individuals participating. Sharing the results was the best he could do to us. The public. The blind us who looks down on anyone who believes otherwise and at the same time believes and pursues truths of our own. Thank you. And thank you.

[@tin-n-tan]

Lol. Uwot?

[@dreadpiratesnake6152]

I need to sue v sauce

[@blktarockstar818]

You weren't sure what the end goal was? That's depressing

[@nathanroberson]

Oh, I guess it’s only funny to people that don’t understand physics and how you wouldn’t be able to make a machine fly like a Bird.

[@tin-n-tan]

@@blktarockstar818 bahaha. Lolz.

[@lyricessence]

After watching Peter's gig for years, I am again so impressed with and surprised by his compassionate insight and conclusions that are far more important than what we even thought they were. Turns out he wasn't mocking anyone after all with his parody. Yes, he's clever. Yes, he's committed. Yes, he's pretty insightful about conspiracy theorists. I'm delighted to also see that, yes, he's thinking about and sharing his insights about how to solve the problem instead of just showcasing it in a humorous way. One more young person again gives me hope for our future.

[@dennisnickoloff1723]

The birds coming to my bird feeder do seem to be paying more attention to me lately. And they act strangely also. One of them shot sparks all over the place when it jumped in the birdbath

[@St4rTr3v1Ut10n]

Have you ever dissected a bird? Why hasn't that ever seemingly come up with this guy?

[@DanielBro42]

Throughout the entire talk, I only thought about the people who genuinely believed that birds aren't real. I wonder how they felt when he broke character. The cognitive dissonance must have been at 1000% when they heard about it.

[@jaredfromspace]

I think a large portion of them probably also think the world is flat and vaccines are something nefarious

[@LogixXtreme]

I can only imagine those that are in the denial phase, and maybe they even believe that Peter switched sides or was captured by the government. But still, how does one know if those that are supposedly in denial, aren't also in character? That's a difficult part about satire; who's in character and who's actually believing the fake conspiracy?

[@admthrawnuru]

They are both probably back on their meds.

[@shaunneal9981]

Yeah anyone who actually believed it would be thinking Peter was made to break character as he was getting too close to the truth. All the more reason to continue the fight.

[@jayjya]

Nah. He just went from his eyes being open to being a sheep

[@Tortilaro]

Damn, the government got to him

[@saladien9987]

Dont worry bird shields are on ;)

[@SalaciousBCrumb-md3lk]

😂😂😂

[@LF-du4uc]

He’s been bought off by Big Bird…

[@LVAudits]

Big bird isn't real 😮

[@MiTmite9]

As someone who has loved birds and watched them for many many years, I wonder how I would have approached Peter, upon seeing him with his Van and "Birds Aren't Real" paraphernalia. I really hope I would have tried to have a sensible conversation with him and be able to communicate with him in a friendly, open manner.

[@leonlowenstadter9223]

So, you realised that and when they were replaced by those drones and did nothing?

[@BenMorris-f2h]

I really enjoyed how he spun this talk twice. His resting premise is so valuable. This young man is really seeking to bring peace in the right way. Treat everyone as real people living their only life. So respect them and take the time to respect them enough to talk to them graciously and stop being afraid of what they have to say. We must understand where each other is coming from and the reasons why. Only then will we really communicate what both sides are looking for.

[@JustinJones_now]

Props to you, Peter. This is Colbert level work. I’m a healthcare worker in a conservative community and can honestly say that your work has provided me with some much needed catharsis as I have watched friends and neighbors fall for dangerous conspiracy theories over the past several years.

[@dugw15]

What conspiracies have you seen widely believed and concerned you the most?

[@e.t.5456]

If you think we live in a truthful rational society, you a greatly mistaken

[@johnjeffreys6440]

I knew it was a fib. Only God can make birds sing.

[@clarkpalace]

As I approach what we call old age I give less and less latitude to these joker people who must have never cared about the truth and only about where their next meal, or grift, comes from

[@typocoproject]

I am also curious what conspiracy theories you are referencing as you mentioned you are a healthcare worker in a conservative community.

[@RJ420NL]

He's absolutely right. People turn to cults, drugs and other forms of escape/seeking behavior because their "real" life isn't providing what they need. We all have the same basic needs (see Maslow's hierarchy), but sadly, pathetically, modern life doesn't do a very good job of satisfying those needs for most people. Society suffers because of it.

[@shannonjaensch3705]

I live my life based on Maslows hierarchy of needs. Sadly it appears that there are either a small handful of selfish elites that know how to keep our consciousness based in the carnal lower steps of necessities even if those necessities are well met or....This matrix system is designed to do so.

[@Joseph-nh6in]

@rj Modern life doesn't satisfy those needs of self-actualization by design. It's socially engineered to be antithetical to the human spirit. That's what "conspiratorial thinking" is about. It's acknowledging that reality. Remember that it used to be a tin foil hat conspiracy that people were listening to us on our cell phones, computers, alexa, etc. Now it's common knowledge.

[@sfglim5341]

@@shannonjaensch3705 dont call it the matrix call it what it is: Capitalism

[@mullafacation]

@@sfglim5341 I find it hard to believe that selfishness wouldn't be present in a non-capitalist society. The capitalist mindset is definitely selfish but selfishness isn't limited to capitalists. It's human nature that has us needing capitalism in the first place because the matrix is designed for anarcho-primitivism.

[@sarahberkner]

I would disagree, we literally have better access to resources than most people throughout history. You just hear about bad stuff because of the news and social media. And people who actually have to work more to survive are often too busy to complain all the time, and they know it doesn't accomplish anything. People don't turn to things like drugs because they're hungry, they do because they haven't been taught better or they're lonely or other reasons. And then sometimes their basic needs are no longer met because they have an eating disorder or addiction (drugs, gambling, etc.).

[@efoley5909]

Couldn't be happier to see this on my page today, while I'm wearing my "BIRD WATCHING GOES BOTH WAYS - BIRDS AREN'T REAL" t-shirt. Such a great talk, and a very good point eloquently made.

[@NervXT]

Absolutely agree. The movie "Behind the Curve" also demonstrated the same phenomenon where these individuals had a much better sense of community and purpose within their conspiracy circle than they did elsewhere. I think the approach of laughing, belittling, and dismissing people who have fringe views only further pushes them into that conspiracy and further emboldens them. I don't know what the right answer is, but whatever we're doing now is not effective.

[@jeffhess4650]

"I don't know what the right answer is, but whatever we're doing now is not effective." Me neither. I do wish that someone will present constructive strategies to guide us toward better answers.

[@nathanmcgeachy6391]

Here’s a strategy. Listen without speaking, give legitimate thought to the argument. Provide counter points from your POV respectfully, then help them build a healthier community. Befriend one of the “crazies” and see what you can do

[@peteranon8455]

That sounds like something the gobermint would say!

[@robertalexander-bk5zj]

He's so right and it's hard to be that better person. When it's too hard to try to change minds and connect, sometimes the best bad choice is to leave it be if you're only going to make it worse.

[@nikitavarygin1742]

The idea to treat people with empathy and understanding, no matter how wrong and irrational they may seem, is an essential concept everyone should learn. Wonderful talk ❤

[@LesNessman2001]

BS don’t excuse their damage. Empathy and understanding won’t be returned. This is a great metaphor for religion. It’s complete bs, but society is guilted into tolerance, ignoring the damage. Unacceptable and damaging behavior is immoral.

[@shahrock6969]

​@@LesNessman2001cant say you are wrong 😂

[@user-rm2qj2jh4l]

I very much agree!

[@naturally_rob]

​@@LesNessman2001You can hold people accountable while still being compassionate. If you don't understand someone and all you do is respond with anger shutting them down, all that will be returned is more of what you've been getting from them. It's not about tolerance or excusing their damage, it's about giving the person a chance to express themselves.

[@LesNessman2001]

@@naturally_rob very very very good point… thank you. Honestly I have no examples of this, so I have a lot to learn and explore.

[@sushienjoyer]

I come here expecting a comedic little talk, but this actually very good and thought-provoking 👍🏻

[@lunadoll5204]

I did not expect the heartwarming ending to a basic birds of a feather (BAF) talk. It’s all about finding your flock. Kudos to you sir.

[@AR_420]

Agreed

[@abeautifuldayful]

Everyone needs to give a flock. Just don't flock it up too much.😏

[@Jazzy_Boop]

Flock around, and find out.

[@homespuncovers89]

I don’t know, it’s just too much fun to belittle and berate those “who have no stars upon thars”

[@pdillon1987]

This reminds me of what I learnt whilst studying for my degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy, "everyone does every thing for a reason". Others may frustrate us at times with their actions, but if we ask ourselves 'why might they be doing xyz', 'what could be at the root of their actions', we can act towards them from a place of love, compassion, and understanding. Maybe our one act of love, compassion, and kindness may be the seed that someone needs to grow a change in their life. With love and kindness, Peter x

[@monkeeseemonkeedoo3745]

Watching the conclusion of the talk, I have to say it's spot on. We often base judgements on complete misunderstandings, but the bad feelings those misunderstandings create stay, and they push people to dig their feet in and double down. It can be self-fulfilling, with groups forming and adding grievances to their side, to the point that the initial misunderstanding is irrelevant. In large enough numbers these kinds of misunderstandings are impossible to avoid I think, but being empathetic and open to the idea that we've misunderstood something are two good antidotes to this kind of thing, in my opinion.

[@lesliebrew4789]

Wow. I actually found myself becoming perturbed by him during that first 5 minutes. It worked and I just learned something about myself and human nature. Well done, Peter!

[@satheeshkadiam2136]

Birds are still not real. They just bought the leader to discredit the movement 😂😂😂

[@ryangilles4837]

This guy is definitely bought. His whole presentation is a giant strawman argument. Poorly educated ppl won’t catch on

[@johnjeffreys6440]

I knew it was a fib. Only God can make the birds sing.

[@homespuncovers89]

@@johnjeffreys6440JFC John, just stop, it’s not funny and posting it 1000 times isn’t going to make it better.

[@dailynews5683]

Really?! I knew from the beginning that this was going to be a piece about how easily people are fooled into ridiculous conspiracies. This really speaks volumes into how differently people perceive reality.

[@UndeadAlv]

Damn this talk… I really hope it becomes more famous. What you’re saying is so important for a better future

[@razi-elinho]

Would you believe then, that this video was uploaded because of some moments that I had last night? I don't think so. Would you believe then, that I found a way to talk to God, and also the cure for schizophrenia, the condition of the century? I don't think so. It's been years since I keep trying to share things that I have learned along my journey, but every single person that I have met discredits me completely. From family, to friends, to strangers on the internet. And guess what? All I need is a couple of people that have a lot of time on their hands because I understand that it's super hard to open your mind. One lousy moment may mean nothing at all, but all of them together, mean everything that you could imagine of. I'm just praying that that day will come, and we'll be able to help those poor souls that deal with schizophrenia, and are suicidal every now and then. It's really not easy for them to conquer their fears. It takes a lot of mental strength, and a huge leap of faith.

[@razi-elinho]

Besomorph & Saint Chaos - Like A Cigarette

[@LesNessman2001]

As a metaphor for religion, it’s terrible advice. Unacceptable and damaging behavior should be called out and disciplined.

[@razi-elinho]

@@LesNessman2001 I wonder what this has to do with religion? You know what's the root of all evil? Plain Ignorance. This video shows how those like me are treated without anyone to even give us the benefit the of the doubt. So many "Christians" on this earth, including my parents, BUT none of them truly believe in God when they can't see the forest for the trees. In 7 years since I have awakened to the Christ consciousnesses that resides in each and any of us, I have had over 1.000.000 moments that happened within the present moment as we do live a perfect simulation based on an evolution script. I could've been dead, or made schizophrenia like my best friend and 100 million others, but I saved myself, and now I will never ever make that condition again. "The only schizophrenic around" that doesn't need treatment like Olanzapine every now and then. Don't you find that ridiculous?

[@mycount64]

So a life where your communal needs are met entirely by lies is OK.

[@chrishooge3442]

When I first started watching KZbin videos in earnest (around 2016) I went down the Appalachian Trail rabbit hole. It was informative and I took up day hiking to get fit and prepare for multi-day hikes. But the YT algorithm did something strange...it began presenting "prepper" content. At first it was camping, canning, gardening, raising chickens. Pretty domestic stuff. The content got edgier over time. Guns, first aid, off grid living, and self-reliance. Talk of SHTF and WROL. When COVID hit the conspiracies came out and YT started de-monetizing people. So, they all ran off to Patreon because they wanted the income stream back. Not everyone on Patreon is conspiracy content. I keep an eye on a couple of those channels and they've gotten more insular since Trump left office. Once someone finds a place like that it tends to be self-confirming and self-reinforcing. There's not a lot of second guessing or "have you considered the alternative explanation" going on. The only bumper sticker on my vehicle...Birds Aren't Real.

[@GoldenMediaGirl]

This was excellent. The best way to get people to listen to you, is to openly listen to them first, then to have an honest discussion where both of you share your reasonings, and thought process. The hard part is finding others who are willing to participate in such a discussion.

[@LastCuriosity-tb7zy]

This is why I never argue online. I've never seen it change someone's mind. People online may feel emboldened by anonymity to be more scathing than they would irl. People online are less likely to empathize due to a dehumanization of the entire exchange. A sparse medium of communication increases the likelihood for misunderstandings. Often it promotes shouting down the other individual, and a lower likelihood of trying to listen and inform oneself about the other perspective. The times I've had my mind changed, or changed the minds of others, typically involved a preexisting relationship. A disclaimer: I know my perspective is greatly limited by my narrow slice of the human experience. I'm not saying no one's ever benefitted from an online debate. But you might be able to at least agree that at least most of the time, it doesn't seem to solve anything.

[@monkeeseemonkeedoo3745]

I agree with all your points, but personally I still try to discuss with people online, even about religion and politics. I try to be polite and understanding of their views, find common ground. If you are talking to someone you disagree with, on a contentious topic, you will probably not hear 'you are right, you changed my mind' at all. But there is still value in a respectful exchange between people who disagree, especially these days when people are so quick to demonize other groups. I believe from small positive interactions, positive examples, we can eventually get a trend. We have to set a good example ourselves, each person. Granted, not every interaction will be positive even if you do your best, most will be mixed, but you can almost always learn a little from them anyway, so silver lining.

[@LeCrenn]

Amen.

[@azilbean]

I'm so glad to see him here, doing this. I watched this thing unfold in real time, and it was FANTASTIC! He's a fantastic human being! ❤

[@JustinLesamiz]

What makes you say that? He seems fine, but this is all about him extending his time in the spotlight. He's not saying anything useful here.

[@TheMullerClan]

​@@JustinLesamiz either your ears don't work, you didn't listen to the end or you are just lacking any empathy

[@jedimindtrix2142]

​​​​@@TheMullerClanI can't believe how hollow this point rings with some people. It's quite disheartening. I actually just had a conversation and used this approach with a bus driver who was into some beliefs that, let's say, were, thin on facts about some events that took place here recently. There is no point in diving into specifics. I heard him out, didn't tell him he was stupid, dumb, crazy, etc. Simply shared my views back about how media is polarized and people who don't take the time to step outside of their box or comfort zone of beliefs will not get a full picture, only a filtered or sanitized version of events that suits a narrative. It was actually a great talk that ended with him truly realizing that maybe he didn't have it all the way he thought he did. Now imagine how difficult and different that engagement would have been if I just called him stupid and said what he thought was dumb and that he should believe how I do? Would that have gone well? Doubtful. It's one of those things that sounds obvious, but in reality and practice, people just don't do very much. This talk was an amazing reminder of what a lot of people need to hear.

[@bryanchaney2572]

@@TheMullerClan We are just normal people with common sense and some of us don't have an extensive education or book smarts. More times than not, that extensive education and book smarts will diminish common sense.

[@JoeBob79569]

Unfortunately being empathetic, polite and reasonable just doesn't work with conspiracy theorists. I've debated with a lot of them online over the last 6-8 years, mostly flatearthers, and I'm always civil and polite to them; I'll answer their questions, point them towards experiments, facts, articles, draw some images and diagrams to explain my point, etc, but after a few interactions it's always _them_ who start getting aggressive, rude and haughty, and they'll hop from topic to topic to avoid admitting they don't have an answer, or that they were wrong.. And usually it ends up with them leaving a final comment explaining how they've "won", and then they block me immediately after posting it. Of course they get abuse from people too, but neither abuse, nor being nice to them, has any effect whatsoever. I think the _real_ problem for most of them is that either they get a "high" from their conspiracy, because it makes them feel smart, or else they jumped on the conspiracy train too quickly and can't admit they were wrong about their conspiracy, their ego just won't allow them to admit they fell for it. It's kind of like when you're having a heavy argument with a friend or partner and you suddenly realise that they might be right and you might be wrong, and you get that bad feeling in the pit of your stomach, and your brain telling you that you're an idiot, and you have to decide whether to come clean or to keep arguing even though you know you are wrong. And a lot of conspiracy theorists have far too much invested in their conspiracy to leave it all behind and "face the shame".

[@jperin001]

Very true, but it is better to leave a foundation of empathy for the rare chance someone may be in a condition to consider letting go.

[@shannonjaensch3705]

Would you like to have a respectful conversation with a "Flatish Earther" as I am more then happy too converse with someone as respectful as yourself. We are all different in our thoughts, beliefs, opinions and views on this crazy consciousness experience that we call "Life" but that is what makes it so interesting if we treat everyone with respect as that is how we all grow/truely evolve by way of consciousness.

[@JoeBob79569]

@@shannonjaensch3705 Yea, "flattish Earthers" are fine because they're usually willing to listen to reason when you explain something to them. But long-term flatearthers generally just make up a random excuse (usually something like: "oh, they're in on it too"), or else they just totally ignore what you said, like if you explain that "the planets can't be lights on the dome because Venus and Mercury often transit in _front_ of the sun". But yea, if you have any questions I'd be happy to answer them!

[@MikaelLewisify]

Yup, exactly the problem.

[@haruhisuzumiya6650]

Confirmation bias clouds judgement

[@StripeyGato]

This: Solving the crisis of belonging before the crisis of belief. The entire project was so empathetic and beautiful. Props to you Peter, & thank you ❤

[@Person-jw7mk]

Sounds like a bunch of empty words to be honest. Is there more to it that he didn't say? How *exactly* should an everyday person interact with a conspiracy theorist? Why even give them your time of day? Why didn't he give any concrete examples of what to do instead of just saying empty platitudes?

[@DramaticGnat]

I remember this guy! I watched an interview of him, and I felt kinda angry that anyone was giving him airtime just for being a paranoid schizophrenic. I thought at the time he was low-hanging fruit, like the media was exploiting him in the age of misinformation and increased paranoia. Nowadays it's becoming more important to have a social medial presence than to have an actual social life. The media engages us now on a social level more than ever before.

[@gregsquires6201]

Yes! That was a point I thought he was going to address. The media feeds the fire because they know they will get "outrage views" from it.

[@HouseholdDog]

A social media presence is not important. Indeed it stops you from living a genuine life.

[@brunolerman2108]

Belonging before belief. This is so wise! The last 3 or 4 minutes of his speech are unbelievably smart, courageous, have empathy, respect and coherence. He described love.

[@thomp9054]

I agree with everything he says here. We need to be sympathetic to the exploited individuals but the people with power and money who spread lies and misinformation need to be held accountable.

[@rhyfelur]

I completely get and agree with the point of this talk, but really what I want to know most is, how many true believers did you create in the 4 years of the movement?

[@mistressfreezepeach]

the point was to ridicule/discredit all (truthful or not) narratives described as CTs not creating a huge following.

[@nitePhyyre]

​@@mistressfreezepeachYeah, but OP was asking how many people really missed the point.

[@MrBrokenazs]

Its been decades! The CIA replaced birds with drones in the 1970s

[@rhyfelur]

@@mistressfreezepeach Lol, I knew that even If I stated right up front that I understood the actual point, that someone would be unable to resist explaining it to me anyway. It doesn't have to be the point, for me to be curious about it!

[@mistressfreezepeach]

@@nitePhyyre I know, and I implied his question misses the point. Whatever.

[@NoName-ik2du]

In the past I spent an extensive amount of time talking to a conspiracy theorist over the course of many months. His inclination to believe the insane came from a very unhealthy upbringing. I never belittled him and would always listen and try to have constructive conversations with him. It...just...never went anywhere. He was too damaged. He was also very aware of himself. He knew everyone thought he was nuts. But he just kept right on at it because _he_ was trying to make the world better. He really was a noble person who cared about his fellow man, he was just hopelessly misguided and gullible. It was both frustrating and sad to me that I couldn't find a way to snap him out of it.

[@LeCrenn]

Yep. The key element that this guy giving the talk has overlooked is that his response to criticism was based on his knowledge that he was only pretending to be a conspiracy theorist. The real ones responded as you have described. There is no getting through. It’s like dealing with a person with compulsive or addictive behavior. They see it, they know others see it, but as you have said, they are too damaged. It takes more than reason or compassion. It requires professional help.

[@xato3796]

The problem also stems from how the term conspiracy theory is used. It’s really hard to separate people who talked about MK Ultra, Gulf of Tonkin, USS Maine, and WMDs in Iraq from flat earthers. When you have the CIA expressly using the term conspiracy theorist to label correct info that is a breach in infosec, it becomes impossible to help those with paranoid tendencies because they’ll point to the conspiracies that turned out true and then justify that their delusions are real. Furthermore, some conspiracy theorists are right. And that’s a problem. Some are picking up signals that are real but asserting that they mean something else. Like the CIA finding out some guy was picking up military coms while looking for aliens. So the CIA sent some people to him to say he’s on to something and he need to give him more info about what he found in exchange they’ll give him info on aliens. And then they printed a bunch of fake stuff to keep him interested. He picked up REAL military signals, and the CIA ran a REAL psyop on this dude to retrieve them, but all we hear from the guy is that the CIA is handing him info on aliens. They were fake documents but he wasn’t lying about the CIA giving them to him. But of course no one believes him. That’s the point.

[@xato3796]

Also all those things I cited are searchable on the CIA declassified database hosted by the US government. Most people also throw the term conspiracy theorist around when they haven’t actually read the documents put out by the US government explaining in explicit detail what they did. My college professor almost failed me because I wrote a research paper on MKUKLTRA because I was a “conspiracy theorist” but he had to rescind it when EVERY one of my sources was from CIA dot gov.

[@damientom]

Being more patient/considerate/empathetic with fellow humans is always a good idea, especially when they are very different from you. So, very good point. However, many outlandish conspiracy theories have intolerable traits which include becoming hostile if you deconstruct their theories; becoming hostile if you don't believe their theories; becoming hostile if you politely decline to learn more about their theories; becoming hostile because you just want to do your job and not be bothered by them.

[@jsw973]

What he's saying in this talk is to not start the hostility, it never makes thing better. You're not in charge of how they act, but you are in charge of how you yourself act

[@damientom]

@jsw973 that's right. I like that we agree we should not be hostile, people can have their personal beliefs without having to resort to aggression over differences. I have found parallels with research and personal experience regarding the behaviour of individuals promoting extremely outlandish theories.

[@cj-cv7zv]

so good to see this idea be articulated so well, glad more people are starting to be open minded to this kind of thinking

[@liesxh]

Inspiring message many need to hear "let's look at the crisis of belonging"

[@CeeJay591]

Excellent presentation and solid advice - one of the best TED talks ever.

[@gheller2261]

Huh? This is by far the worst one I have ever seen. Bunch of unmitigated nonsense masquerading as an important message.

[@terranceblount5959]

1. Solid work. 2. This has slightly changed my perspective. Very good analysis from his experience and while it’s hard to be patient, what a great point in belonging first.

[@hebercluff1665]

In what way did this man slightly change your mind?

[@richmizner]

Man... this is everything I needed. Thank you. It just takes belief in humanity first. Excellent presentation.

[@noahsowby7543]

The first time I saw the "Birds Aren't Real" was a sticker on a telephone pole in Missouri. I took a picture of it with no context whatsoever, thinking about what it could possibly mean, and what silly person went through the effort to print a sticker with a website on it and put it on an outside pole.

[@Anil18834]

Such a compelling argument to address each other with empathy. Very elevated Peter with a very elevated concept.

[@LesNessman2001]

Empathy sure, but it shouldn’t be an excuse to wave away the damage it causes.

[@Anil18834]

@@LesNessman2001 I'm not sure you got the message. The entire point is to solve the issue of disinformation by setting off from a premise of empathy.

[@JustinLesamiz]

@@Anil18834Then what?! It's easy to say that from the safety of your phone. If you had actually tried it for any amount of time, you'd know just how completely futile and worthless it is.

[@michielshub]

Great talk with an equally great message. I believe in keeping an open mind and be interested in what moves another person to believe or be convinced of another ‘truth’. I never had personal discussions with let say die hard conspiracy theorists, but during Covid I did have talks about the vaccine, I think we all had those conversations with family members, colleagues or friends. Discussions can get polarizing quite fast, I was not even trying to convince, just listening, and I usually stopped these. Yes, as Peter says, be interested in why he/she got to this opinion or believe, but damn it can hard. I felt and still feel that it is not ‘us’ who are not open for discussion or just listening, but ‘them’ (I know, I am polarizing it now) who close the door upfront. I am not ‘awake’ and the woken ones more and more close them selves of for the rest. It’s tough.

[@Joseph-nh6in]

@mich You are so brilliant. You have it all figured out. All we need to do is listen to the government and we can never fail or be wrong!

[@michaelrobson1627]

Ok, so tell me, in your opinion; are the "vaccines" safe and effective?

[@Aliens1337]

Or just use common sense and logic? How many people died from COVID vaccines? How many people died from COVID because they didn't take the vaccine? Are vaccines effective? Well why is polio no longer around? The biggest problem with conspiracy theorists is that if anyone start asking basic questions that expose the flaws in their theories, they are backed into a corner and then started screaming "do your own research" or "the evil blah blah blah is lying to you." If you wanna prove your conspiracy theory and have people listened, at least prepare some hard proof and answers. Otherwise, there's an English word for it, called "delusional."

[@grantbaker371]

Interesting. Your comment does not seem to be clear to me about your position on the shot etc. I do find it interesting that now that the thing is well behind us and it presents as any cold of flu now, the statistical data on excess deaths as tabulated by the various agencies around the globe are reporting excess deaths are 10 to 20 % higher than the 5 year average. These numbers started around the same time as the miracle cure was doled out. Oddly the news never brings it up. Our government is not looking into it. Not to mention the numerous people that have suffered from the cure and still do. Maybe people should be more skeptical of a miracle cure that makes billions of dollars in a very short time scale.

[@beachlife8367]

This was an absolutely powerful presentation. Wow. This was so good.

[@Moose92411]

I needed this talk ten years ago. I was horribly guilty of feeling like my derision and judgements of conspiracy theorists, “idiots, ignorant swine,” would somehow convince them to examine the error of their ways and change toward a more mainstream belief structure. I’m really glad someone articulate and immersed in the experience is bringing this insight forward.

[@marshallross3373]

I think you can substitute "conspiracy theory" with a belief system of any kind...religious beliefs, or political ones, for example. People frame identity around their set of beliefs, which is why so much effort is invested in manipulating the public's beliefs through propaganda and information/dis-information via the news and media, and now the internet. Once people begin to identify with a certain set of beliefs, they tend to ignore or refute opposing information, even if that information is objectively and indisputably the truth. Truth and accuracy have no relevance to the human mind if it has wrapped itself around a certain system of beliefs that embrace falsehoods. The human mind is malleable, and can rationalize almost anything. I think this Peter guy is right, in the sense that people who are stuck on their beliefs generally are not open to hearing contrarian information. I'd add that most of the time, people are not interested in challenging their own beliefs; it's generally a losing proposition if you try to get them to reconsider what they believe.

[@marshallross3373]

@@MrMichiel1983 Irony. Well done.

[@theendarkenedilluminatus4342]

This was amazingly well done. Great job! Best TED talk for a long time.

[@linengray]

I have been a bird truther for years. Praise you for sharing this with the rest of the world.

[@johndonaldson3619]

well we all can't be smart.....

[@echognomecal6742]

Excellent. Very important info. Part 2, please: How to go about bringing our community together to function in a healthful, inclusive manner. ...& also end school shootings.

[@daisy_on_inferno]

I wrote a research paper on echo chambers just this last spring, and came to this same conclusion. Leading our lives through empathy can be hard, but is likely the solution to these modern problems of conspiracy theories and communities.

[@ethanbeal3388]

Hi ! i'm currently working on a project about conspiracy theories from a distant country called "Wewe baguette" (i'm french). I'd love to have an acces to your paper if that's possible, that would be extremely helpful for me. Just the title or the website that i could find it on could be really incredible.

[@daisy_on_inferno]

@@ethanbeal3388 it’s not published anywhere, but I can send it to you =)

[@Calupp]

This is easily the best and only good Ted talk since 2016

[@LesNessman2001]

“Fake Movement”… riiight! I get it, I see you… Good cover. “Peter” is “playing a character” BIRD WATCHING GOES BOTH WAYS 4 LIFE!

[@MrBrokenazs]

These smooth drains are living in blissful, and surveilled, ignorance. Paid actors promoting birds as "real". They likely know they are being watched and are afraid to speak out!

[@MrBrokenazs]

@@PBFoote-mo2zr Im not sure, but its probably.......shocking

[@Dayz_Ex]

I fucking love this dude

[@samuel_soo]

A brilliant presentation, empathy is so important.

[@BrianHurry]

This guy thinks birds aren't real and you agree?

[@JustinLesamiz]

No argument that empathy is important but it's not going to help us with these people.

[@ShaggyJustin]

This young man's experiences have given him wisdom beyond his years.

[@Sutterjack]

I'm a truther and I love this guy - it's a lot of fun and I love his passion. We all need a break from sanity in this crazy world!

[@drdeetlefs]

Great insight! It is challenging, but try to comprehend, not to judge. Many people who fall victim to conspiracy theories do so because they were first made vulnerable by their respective lived experiences. If you want to help them, include them, don't isolate them. Many of these people have all the reasons in the world to distrust authority, because of the way they were treated as kids. In one of many potential complex circumstances, we rail against child abuse, but what are we doing to deal with the consequences when those damaged kids grow up? We need to find ways to give people reasons for feeling included, validated and that they belong. In general, they are not the problem, but their behaviour is a symptom of the problem. You don't have to agree with them, just care more about the person than about their behaviour. Give them a reason to trust you. Don't try to change their minds, change their experience of society. Be authentic, and be the best you can be to them without compromising your own safety. Don't provoke or engage in arguments. Pursue common interests beyond the conspiracy topics. This is not advice, it is merely what I try to do when I support people.

[@Joseph-nh6in]

@drdeet Brilliant! Those delusional traumatized schizos are so delusional to not trust authority. Authority is the greatest thing in the universe! You are so brilliant that you realize that your silver spoon experience of life is the true representation of universal reality and that the billions of traumatized people on the planet are just acting out as a coping mechanism because they are vulnerable and weak. Oh but you don't judge them. You comprehend them! With secular reductionism because secular reductionism is the beating heart of the cosmos! Oh thank goodness for authority! You are one of the most brilliant people on the planet.

[@TheMissionLog]

[@jedimindtrix2142]

Bingo. Just had a conversation the other day with someone who was pretty well influenced by some less than factual information. Took the same approach you and the dude here in the video talked about. This was before I even heard of this too. I just naturally came to this same conclusion about people through my own experiences and figured I'd put it into action. I think I was probably the first person he had talked with who countered his views with respectful conversation. Amazing how much more receptive he was, even if it was a uncomfortable for him and even myself. Its never easy to directly engage someone about their views when you belive they are wrong about something. There is a right way and a wrong way to do it.

[@Joseph-nh6in]

@jedimindtrix2142 what was this "less than factual" information? Be specific.

[@michaelrobson1627]

I too would like to know what the "less than factual information" was. Thank you.@@jedimindtrix2142

[@BlakeRosier]

Peter crushed this. Loved it!

[@davidlange1000]

The whole community aspect of conspiracy theories is the same mechanism at work in religion. A group, a community, trying to make sense of this crazy life and believing insane things.

[@shannonjaensch3705]

It no longer can be called a conspiracy "theory" when there is too much evidence that proves it is a Conspiracy

[@satheeshkadiam2136]

Birds are still not real. They just bought the leader to discredit the movement 😂😂😂

[@costidisa]

And sports fanaticism. Basic tribalism I suspect. Not convinced there's a cure for it. No amount of empathy tiward conspiracists will fix the massive wealth and educational inequities, especially when there are such strong forces (corporate interests and organized religion) constantly working toward maintaining and increasing the divide and inequity.

[@Hyperbolic_G]

Quantum physics are absolutely bonkers insane too. The extremely smart among us want to belong as well and they do the same sort of tribal stuff. The endgame is to just include everyone despite their personal issues and beliefs so that we can all feel like we belong. But that's a woke af belief.

[@birdo_for_6]

Peter is such a good public speaker and I think he would make a really good psychology or sociology professor

[@SatMatt7]

Good, intelligent, compassionate talk.

[@MikaelLewisify]

“Never argue with an idiot. They will only bring you down to their level and beat you with experience”. Mark Twain

[@NickAskew]

Brilliant. I'm sure we can all name groups whose theories are easily disprovable or at the very least are not backed up by evidence. This is a great explanation, the need to belong overrides the need for truth.

[@alienonion4636]

That's exactly what I got from meeting the bird truthers while I was strolling around downtown Chicago. A wonderful experience and I was welcomed by many as I joined in the chanting. And now I often wonder about those like myself who go along with a thing while suspending a long held belief. It's life changing.

[@michaelrobson1627]

Name one, one of these "easily disprovable" theories.

[@Recapsulate]

Mainstream Media

[@raylder6339]

8:30 onwards is the most important part to this guy’s point, but the whole talk is structured really well to ease you into the frame of mind he wants you to view the issue of psychology from.

[@amberdiadema118]

This is the first Ted talk that I actually watched the whole thing through

[@GriquaChief]

Very enlightening. Shows me how to deal with my friends who sank into the conspiracy hole.

[@ChubbyUnicorn]

It is difficult to have empathy toward those who appear thoughtless or without reason. It's a primordial fear reaction. Such people are often dangerous and abuse kindness, but he is correct that confrontation is rarely an effective approach to productive discourse.

[@Joseph-nh6in]

@chubby What is your idea of kindness? Giving hormone blockers to 10 year olds? Assisted suicide to teenagers who got dumped by their high school sweetheart? Killing a human in the womb? Putting a 6 foot 4 biological male in a cage match against a biological female?

[@bizcocho4399]

Had me look into this baby pigeon situation and I learned something new! Thanks for that!

[@zb2363]

I understand not attacking one another, but how do you suggest taking to conspiracy theorists who spread disinformation and sometimes dangerous or hateful information? Looking for actual concrete suggestions, because that’s the hard part.

[@mho...]

a border-free(no topic left untouched/talked about) broad education is the most secure way, to make conspiracies unappealing to participate for people! but if they grow up with low level education & believing a religion without question to start with, it makes it easier & more likely to convince them *believing* is all you need to be right!......

[@jeremiekonegni4957]

He is one of my favorite recent cultural icons. I got it and loved it right away. Lol. Said "Birds aren't real" at lunch at work one day. Got a confused side eye from a coworker. I proclaimed, "why do pigeon feathers look like iridescent metallic plates?... It's because they are because birds aren't real!" LOL. Got a good laugh on that one.

[@balloney2175]

This young man is so brilliant. He knows what is going around the world and he critiques it. He knows what lies ahead and his goal is to save his generation and the one that is coming.

[@worldcitizen9202]

Great message Peter and awesome job presenting. There is one thing though that bothers me which is the people that create, feed and water the conspiracy theories for personal gain. How do we fight those people ? With kindness ? Understanding ? Reason ?

[@Arulane]

They are making a profit. Sue them. Not out of revenge but to use a conspiracy theory for profit or blackmail knowingly is a crime. Look at Fox-Dominion case and Steve Bannon who lost to the families of the dead children he defamed for profit.

[@godassasin8097]

almost made me believe birds were real 9/10

[@Tate525]

9/11

[@MrBrokenazs]

Keep strong brother! We know the truth and must spread it to all the vulgar masses

[@godassasin8097]

@@MrBrokenazs vulgar is a pretty vulgar word mam

[@godassasin8097]

man*

[@MrBrokenazs]

@@godassasin8097 Im using it in the metaphysical context meaning ignorant or uninitiated

[@raxino774]

The day my sister's parrot started saying the n-word like me, I had my doubts about it. Guess what? I stopped recharging it and started feeding it bird food instead

[@rjstegbauer]

I love that his van says "Birds aren't real" and also has those spikes on the roof of the van that are used to keep birds off.

[@abbybiegel1588]

been a bird truther for years. peter you absolutely crushed this one love to see you flourish like this

[@karinak09]

“Bird watching goes both ways”….genius

[@macbrebonicks8668]

Drop down and get your eagle on, girl!

[@brianlee360]

You know what undermines conspiracy theories? Transparency and accountability.

[@jayterra2060]

Amen 🙏

[@studentjohn]

Thank you, especially for the second half - I've been trying to talk to CTers like human beings for years, and I've gotten almost as much hostility off some 'debunkers' as the CTers do.

[@tomtytunovich4726]

It's good to understand where some of the people who believe in these things are coming from, and a sense of belonging and community is definitely part of it. What wasn't mentioned, though, is that often it also comes from wanting to feel special, privy to some privileged information you gained through critical thinking and independent research. This can be important for people who are lacking that elsewhere in their lives, and so this is the only way they can get the feeling they're not just some mundane person in the crowd. Where that's the case, unfortunately, there's no easy solution, and merely accepting them and making them feel like they belong may not be enough. It's much harder to provide an alternative to the sense of superiority that "knowing" these secrets gives you.

[@Andronichus]

I agree. Having arcane or occult knowledge gives a feeling of specialness, purpose and makes the holder important, at least in their own eyes. Others, of course, see a crank with an obsession.

[@Somero5115]

Independent research has nothing to do with birds aren’t real. Shining a light on poor critical thinking skills definitely does

[@swamilive]

I saw this guy interviewed on The Majority Report and I had some sincere doubts about his sincerity. Very cool that it was all just a viral joke at the end of the day. Well done, sir!

[@MarkArandjus]

He's right. The friends and relatives that I know that fell down conspiracy rabbit holes were often unhappy frustrated people, struggling with substance abuse or mental problems, desperate to belong, to feel better about themselves. And conspiracies and fringe movements gave them what they were lacking in their lives. I wish it weren't true, but at the end of the day people are still very much driven by emotion, not reason.

[@coldplaymay]

When we invest in critical thinking as a society, and have a well -educated population, then we would have less conspiracy stuff. We will still have differences of opinion and that's okay

[@stevezilla68]

He sold out to the corporate overbirds.

[@elizabethrobertson8759]

He's a government plant trying to disprove the birds arnt real movement. Trying to cover their butts and keep thier spying secret

[@S.A.L.25]

Great talk and great message. What he doesn’t really answer, unfortunately is the actual way of how to interact with conspiracy theorists. Like how do you listen to somebody explain their theory and not respond with „Ok grandma, let’s get you to bed“ but be patient and everything… When you listen to them explain their data, and you show them something else that’s plausible and explains why the conspiracy wouldn’t be true, they just respond with „your sources are wrong/manipulated“ etc. How to actually go from there?

[@zacklooney8326]

It was so so very clear that it was a bit the whole time, I was watching him within a few months of the movement starting, and it shocked me the day people started to take it seriously. So impressed that it got so far and so scared about that it means

[@shanghaitatoo]

I came in thought I was watching one talk but ended up watching a completely different, but arguably more important talk. Thank you.

[@WOLKsite]

This is very well-spoken.

[@Ninja9JKD]

Of course, it was probably written by the CIA

[@mattphilcarver6218]

The birds have taken control of him. Don't be fooled

[@l.faraday8767]

This is extremely frightening and perfectly describes social media these days.

[@domonikpane4317]

I paused it at 47 seconds in. As soon as someone online asks you to "keep an open mind" and "be respectful" it means they are about to say something absolutely ridiculous. and they know it, they've tried to tell other people the same thing and been laughed at....but sure...let's give it a shot...let's see h ow this video ends....

[@sam512]

😂