How to Resist Conspiracy Theories

It can be easy, in certain moods, to suspect that we can trust no one and to feel the temptation of conspiracy theories. But we’d be wiser learning the art of an intelligent form of scepticism.
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FURTHER READING
“We live in conspiratorial times. Deeply sinister motives appear to be at work everywhere beneath the surface. No one, however high their reputation, is entirely beyond suspicion. Every institution, even the most venerable, may be at it. Whatever may publically be said, something a whole lot ghastlier is probably going on in private. Taking anything on good faith seems a sure route to naivety and disillusion. It’s never been a more tempting moment to become a conspiracy theorist...”
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[@AbudBakri]

_This comment was deleted by George W. Bush_

[@KILLERDOG416]

Dr.StickFigure you mean Obama

[@dylandruryformerlyyungjabb3913]

KILLERDOG416 you mean trump

[@scottb9997]

you mean Bernie sanders

[@brokenacoustic]

I dont see any difference in the names listed...

[@toddharig8142]

You mean Satan

[@account1414141]

This video literally just says that it's healthier to live trusting your fellow humans (NOT BEING NAIVE) and basing doubt on evidence and not emotion. Somehow everyone gets super defensive about their SPECIFIC theories and are threatening to unsub. That's some hardcore denial right there. No one is saying shady shit doesn't happen people, they're just saying use critical thought rather than default distrust of everything and everyone. - Sent from Head of Illuminati's Iphone

[@lr0nY]

I think most of these are jokes, at least the ones at the top right now.

[@account1414141]

Possibly. Poe's law in action.

[@L4wr3nc3810]

Ikr

[@mizofan]

But there seems to be an inappropriate generalisation about "conspiracy theorists" at work here- every case should be treated on its own merits. We would be foolish to believe everything we are told is a lie, but also to assume everything is the truth. People often force their own world views or biases onto issues, instead of judging according to evidence and with open mind. That can work with conspiracy denial as well as conspiracy acceptance.

[@IshtarNike]

mizofan We don't call just anyone a conspiracy theorist. We all know who they are. They believe in multiple completely unverified conspiracies that often debunked with about 5 seconds of critical thought (why don't the lizard people just wear contacts and then they'd never be caught out) etc. They are often prone to believing in almost all kinds of ridiculous conspiracy stuff (see Alex Jones' apparently very successful transition into Christian fundamentalist doomsaying). They are also peculiarly resistant to counter evidence, they have an answer for everything, usually along the lines of "people are bribed, or they're too scared to say anything" sort of circular reasoning that basically uses "it's a conspiracy" as an answer to why I should believe it's a conspiracy. So yeah. Conspiracy theorist are nut jobs, but not all people who believe in conspiracies deserve to be called conspiracy theorists.

[@YoNevNo]

Lol people saying the video is telling them not to think critically... That's the complete opposite of what the video is talking about.

[@eizhowa]

I don't think the people who are saying those things actually watched the video :/

[@sanskritsuthar4452]

eizhowa no. They are just plane stupid.

[@ronytheronin7439]

Well I would say they are idiots... but this isn't the way to treat them. The video said so.

[@nisamonchu]

Why are you down here? :/

[@eizhowa]

+Sanskrit Suthar Well, commenting before watching a video is something I would expect from plain stupid people so no contradiction, neccesarily :P

[@curtainkane]

The point of the video is NOT that conspiracy theorists are always wrong. Nor is it telling us to always believe what we are told. The point is to approach ideas with skepticism, but to also have the maturity to adjust our beliefs as new evidence emerges. Being on the lookout for the shadows which lie behind the lights is useful, and helps us come closer to the truth. But if we can only see the shadows then the whole world becomes a darker place.

[@williamwhitten7820]

Oh Ciarán, how effing trite.

[@foalspreshow]

Can you make a video about choosing understanding over judgement. How judging is the easy option - but approaching situations with patience and compassion is the more difficult, but better choice. I feel like a lot of people in my life could benefit from a video about that topic.

[@TheTraveler980]

I second this. Instead of "resisting" potential lies (like what a kid would do), how about instead come up with a series of steps that allow a person to evaluate and properly judge a piece of information, combined with personal experience and knowledge?

[@saberur66]

"I feel like a lot of people in my life could benefit from a video about that topic." damn thats very passive aggressive

[@BigHenFor]

foalspreshow I would overstand than understand. By that I mean retain more objectivity whilst dealing with others: empathy rather than sympathy, empowering rather than enabling, etc. Might be a big ask for a 5 minute video!

[@CricketStyleJ]

Understanding and judgement are not mutually exclusive. There is no need to choose one over the other.

[@Ozatiq]

agreement to 100%

[@ZachSeaman]

"Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence" - Carl Sagan

[@bluetoad2668]

@Quantum Passport I think you're missing his point. By extraordinary he just meant solid, compelling evidence. Evolution does have very solid and compelling evidence - there is no evidence against it which has stood up to scrutiny (and no, apes looking like humans isn't really evidence). The evidence for evolution is extraordinary because of its breadth and depth.

[@juki0h391]

im an alien to this planet, this channel has really helped me understand humans

[@alundraandseptimus]

What helps me is remembering that conspiracy theories and cults are attractive to intelligent people who see that it makes sense [at face value, before researching] but then end up sucked in because they crave belonging and acceptance and the theories/cults community offers that....So I try to remember this when I start to believe something, and remember it is a marketing pitch - a persuasive piece meant to make you believe, and then go research those facts and things. I am sure to get proper sources to figure out fact or fiction. If they say that planes don't fly over that area or planes vanish more in that area, then look for those numbers. Look up flight patterns, look up crash stats, you know? It's not that hard to fact check but it seems to be a lost art....so I like to remember this because I am vulnerable for falling for something stupid, and so are you.

[@beautyqueen6217]

My thoughts completely. I'm fascinated by cults, religion and conspiracy. The human mind is simply interesting.

[@gperson1967]

A thing I try to remember is that if it makes my brain happy it’s probably biased and tribalistic and not necessarily factual. I try to reserve my dogmatic thoughts for my intimate relationships and football.

[@OnlyThomasHayes]

Well said.

[@KingDayDayDay00]

hey remember when the CIA spying on you was just a conspiracy theory? lol thanks wikileaks

[@ChineseKiwi]

More lack of education. Hoover spied on everyone in the 1950s via telephone tapping. nothing new.

[@ChrisMcSweeney]

_"Indeed, This guy is telling us To Not Critically Think anymore"_ - Most conspiracy theories require a suspension of critical thinking, and almost all of them fall apart when you think about villain motivation or feasibility (or just find some boring old facts). As for CIA spying, did anyone ever think that wasn't going on? It's literally their job, and most of the collection of metadata, etc. was public knowledge - provisions of the Patriot Act, etc. Before Wikileaks burst onto the scene, the in-vogue conspiracy theories were antisemitic Federal Reserve nonsense, 9/11 quackery, JFK stuff and chemtrails, so it's no good saying "the conspiracy theorists were right all along!"; they always claim they were right *after the fact*.

[@graviler2514]

ImageSounds - of course not, is only an urban legend!! silly you! *ImageSounds listed on CIA database*

[@evanwheeler634]

silent observer he's stating that you should think critically but be smart and controlled with your thinking. If you happen to find out that evidence may or may not support a claim, then switch to that. If you move away from supported and proven evidence than your opinion is false. When Wikileaks revealed spying by the NSA, it was already supported with reasonable evidence like the patriot act

[@daniellucas5171]

well just like you said it's smart people that found proofs that prooved that the cia was spying on us no idiots like you , what the video is trying to say is that if you want to believe in a conspiracy you need solid state proofs keep your mind straight think deeply and always be aware of critisisme , when conspiracy become just like another religion where if you disagree you are a part of the conspiracy it self , here it becomes madness and not smart anymore , people would believe anything , it's not that you believed in a conspiracy that by chance and nothing more reveled itself to be true that makes you a great person , you just found in it a illusion of purpose the real genius is the one that actually proofed it and now is asking for political asylum when YOU are comfortably sitting on your chair writing crape

[@thisthisthisisisismy]

If you're a conspiracy theorist (and even if you aren't) and you value clear analytical thinking and are interested in the most or least reliable way to come to a sound conclusion about something, I suggest you get into the disciplines of epistemology and logic. I promise that if you're into finding truth, assessing the reliability of an argument and just plain observing the world around you these disciplines will help beyond measure.

[@simsitzer4578]

Some truthers believe science is a hoax, so studying the science of epistemology and logic would be oxymoronic for them

[@daviddimalanta259]

I was being exposed to conspiracy theories and many of them wanted to prove with their own proofs especially during pandemic times in order to save humanity and people who aren't believing such truth will label "sheeple". Is it trust issues? Have dive down to epistemology and skepticism to seek where it came from truly. Are they real?

[@Chase_baker_1996]

I will not let those people control my life with their opinions and their judgment. I make my own choices as a human being should.

[@natalieann9710]

"The old believe everything, the middle-aged suspect everything, the young know everything."

[@themacocko6311]

Nice.

[@Mickyboi1]

Why are people that question things that dont add up considered dumb? Arent dumb people, people who blindly accept what people tell them and dont have the brain capacity to think independently.

[@dawkot6955]

That's because most of these seem to be anticonformists, and not nonconformists, which implies that they are dependent.

[@kicktheghost2974]

The thing is, most people don't stop at questioning things that don't add up. They come to their own conclusion about what's really going on (or, more often, they embrace someone else's unorthodox narrative) and stick to it rigidly.

[@brijmsn]

You sound kinda dumb.

[@PeterParker-ff7ub]

Smart people don't keep questioning things that are proven.

[@themacocko6311]

@@brijmsn You are kinda dumb.

[@elocnameerf2635]

Great video. I would say the intelligent skeptic understands the corruptness in the world and listens with an open mind to conspiracy theories, however doesn't get swayed in to opinions which create belief systems. The intelligent skeptic rather resists to be persuaded in to narrow minded pathways, however jumps at the opportunity for new ideas and ultimately new conspiracy theories. They realize that knowledge is power, and since it is quite useful to stay up to date, they might consider conspiracy theories as being important information, but, will never fall in to the rabbit hole of complete conspiracy, for they know to stay pure to knowledge, and to not use it as to satisfy their will.

[@treyshaffer]

Conspiracy theorists typically use their theories as an escape from the intellectual failures they've accrued during their lifetimes. Rather than facing the cold hard reality that things are complicated and some people are smarter than them in understanding topics to a more nuanced degree, they change the rules of the game entirely and push themselves onto a moral high ground without having to understand anything in their full complexities.

[@SuperThakid09]

Critical thinking

[@Chrisallengallery]

Should be taught in schools !!

[@SuperThakid09]

+Devils Advocate I'm not in control of these people dumbed down school system

[@SuperThakid09]

+silent observer common sense ain't common no more

[@chazgiustina8870]

Critical thinking, common sense, time management, and social skills are all unspoken standards each student learn. So you can stop acting arrogant, especially considering your inability to type proper English.

[@SuperThakid09]

+Chaz Giustina the gold standard

[@secularteejay]

7-11 was a part time-job.

[@MisterTutor2010]

You must be PUNished :)

[@bluetoad2668]

24-7 wasn't

[@MrMlindsay]

why is everyone telling me to not believe in conspiracy theories?

[@Chrisallengallery]

Sounds like a conspiracy to me ?!

[@maddadification]

MrMlindsay because its what thy want you too think. don't listen too him. he knows nothing.

[@jamesdaniel4386]

sadly what ever horrible things you can imagine they are doing worse!?!

[@reinaaqua685]

MrMlindsay same lmao

[@Conorp77]

lol completely missed the point

[@Terryshowedup]

I literally am in the midst of arguing with flat earthers... unbelievable timing

[@jjc5475]

you have to learn how to spot trolls. cause i saw that conversation and... yeah.. but i agree, some people are really good at it.

[@abizair1832]

I hope you can troll them

[@bluetoad2668]

Flat earthers put forward a falsifiable theory but then proceed to refute all evidence which falsifies it. It then becomes an argument about what constitutes real evidence rather than whether the earth is flat or not. You won't ever be able to convince them.

[@freddiefaulig8751]

BUT hey! That's just a theory, A GAME THEORY... thanks for watching

[@alawi3246]

BUT HEY! . before you close this video I will make a quick ~advert~ shoutout to (insert product) I use it every day and it really helped me through (insert everyday mildly diffuclty) (Insert a picture with a bad pun as a caption)

[@jorgerocadas2436]

hey that's more jacksfilms xD

[@jorgerocadas2436]

the advert part is more jacksfilms xd

[@brijmsn]

Its all just a theory.

[@themacocko6311]

Apparently, you don't know what Game Theory is.

[@ayshb2150]

Beautiful. I love how you don't target people or make them feel like less.

[@lifeinsystem]

"Oh, he's eloquent and articulate and he subdued my snobbish criticism of non-intelectuals, better trust him he must be well educated!" - bourgeoisie middle-class American working slave/college debt slave

[@PhunkeyMunkey]

Always be skeptical, but keep an open mind! Why? MK-Ultra and Operation Paperclip are real.

[@0cards0]

When the default position is to not believe the government, is that denialism? hyper-skepticism? conspiracy mentality? or a justified position?

[@empathylessons2267]

This was EXACTLY what I wanted to hear from you on the topic

[@damienscullytoo]

The videos argues how to be an intelligent skeptic. Watch the video before commenting, you will look like less of a fool i assure you.

[@olivier3967]

Yeah I saw so many people down here in the comments just clearly not having watched the video, and if they did, missed the point entirely.

[@thomascrew471]

Whilst I often find these SoL videos very insightful and helpful in daily life, when they veer onto more politically charged topics (Why is Work so Boring and Why Socrates Hated Democracy spring to mind) they often amount to a defence of the status quo - an attempt to help us accept and adapt to bad conditions. To this video I would say that the bigger and more powerful an individual or organisation, the greater the burden of proof. It is not so much 'ordinary people' with unusual opinions that are the problem as "the upholders of the established ideology". Established ideology seems often to rest on the status of those who proclaim it and not on proof. I would rather see a stronger spotlight on them than on 'conspiracy theorists' - a term that is surely too emotionally charged to be sensibly used.

[@tjm105]

Well said

[@canwenot5017]

Thanks for this video! I've been struggling recently to tell the difference between things that seem real or not, especially these days with various sources for information being so convoluted and unsure. This was helpful!!

[@myfrequencies1912]

First comment I've read in this whole section that sounds like it was written by someone with an open mind. I had to scroll quite a long way....

[@mstarr4812]

Stop getting your info from social media! That will help

[@lorraine70]

@@mstarr4812 I agree

[@motherwolf1529]

It’s an insanely biased video.

[@conphzhi]

Eddie Bravo needs to watch this shit.

[@BlkKidWithTheGlasses]

Just because you have animations and speak as if you know the truth doesn't mean you know the truth.

[@link6397]

Obviously you have an emotional wound you dam conspiracy theorists! To the fema camps!

[@WSHong-oe7bg]

Neither do you.

[@olivier3967]

Did you watch the video and consider what he's saying. If you did actually watch it you missed the point so fucking hard.

[@brandonw2471]

Good video as always, but I believe that the line "the burden of proof... falls on them as the challengers of the status quo" should have been reworded. It is more accurate to state that those who make the claim in question posses the burden of proof.

[@RosePostedThis]

You should release this one in German, so I could send it to someone I know who is well in need of it...

[@polisp7813]

This is a good explanation of why one becomes a conspiracy theorist but in my experience with dealing with hardcore theorists love, kindness and reassurance doesnt cut it, most times it encourages them, i do not know what and if anything works, i have had to cut these people off for the sake of my own sanity

[@jesscail]

It amazes me the number of conspiracy theorists who ignore any contrary evidence put before them because "you shouldn't mindlessly trust sources", yet who are absolutely trusting the dozen rando conspiracy sources who are telling them that.

[@microfarming8583]

It's about 25-0 to the conspiracy theorists since 2020 I'm afraid my darling. Anyone refuting this is living in a media and institutional induced dreamworld.

[@jesscail]

@@microfarming8583 Unclear whether you are gloating about that "score" or lamenting it. Given that you're calling a random guy on the internet "darling" as some misguided attempt at belittlement, I'm going to guess it's the former.

[@microfarming8583]

@@jesscail You nailed it darling.

[@jesscail]

@@microfarming8583 Glad to see a conservative gay man being open about it (even if you are hiding behind the internet to pick up other men). Wish there were more conservatives as brave as you are. Congrats darlin!

[@microfarming8583]

@@jesscail Thanks my dear but I'm not conservative as I dont adhere to the fantasy of the imaginary two party paradigm. Really great to see a "left wing" trans man such as yourself being open and honest about being called a man even though you're called Jessica. It's refreshing to see a "liberal" being honest about being genetically male even though identifying as female, total opposite of what this corrupt administration as enshrining into law. Good luck with everything darling and I know you're secretly hitting on me but I'm only into 100% biological females. Wish you well with your transition.

[@aleksandrkarasev5204]

Thank you so much for the video! It seems that the very idea of calling people "conspiracy theorist" is humiliating, and this commonplace term is only used by politicians and businessmen in a response to reasonable argumentation of their unlawful acts. It is essential that in the society we always have some sort of conspiracy and corruption since we all have friends, siblings and children which very often need our help and consequently, not the best candidates are hired, not all the geniuses get a grant or enrol in the best universities. Almost everybody wants to possess more wealth and to have a better position but why, then, billionaires and politicians should be different in pursuing their goals? Nowadays, everyone is sure that no one got to the moon, that 9/11 was an inside job, and that the climate change is not a hoax, but a very curious way to collect more taxes and/or gain control over industries (not sure if the Earth is flat though). But what's wrong about knowing those facts? Allen was right, however, saying that love and compassion can help us to overcome the temptation of inventing new "theories" or thinking about old ones. But it seems that the best option (IMHO) is to be aware of the conspiracies and corruption that actually exist, and the same time not to be obsessively involved in thinking about them. Btw so-called "conspiracy theorists" are doing a very good job for the society in exposing illegal actions, bribery and lobbying. Hope English-speakers invent a better term for this phenomenon since some of those facts are not just "theories".

[@roystevenson7097]

Just read it on here...... intelligent sceptic.......sounds better.

[@tjm105]

Excellent comment. I suggest corruption uncovered. Wasn't conspiracy theory invented by the CIA to ridicule truthseekers? Or is that just a conspiracy theory?

[@ChaosRaych]

LOL I got a chuckle out of the 'ghosts-are-real skeptic' 😆 In my experience, skeptics are most often on the opposite side of the supernatural discussion 😉

[@DagAreHalland]

Whether a theory is about a conspiracy or quantum physics, it deserves to be dealt with the same way as any other theory. Even though I'm not a believer of the flat earth theory, I'm still open to hearing believers out and examining the evidence presented to me.

[@trashboat7948]

so.. how much did the illuminati pay you to make this video :^{

[@JokubZ]

trashboat lol

[@subscriberswithnovideos-xw9xc]

trashboat Yuck! That dp! Thooo!

[@christopheradams5607]

How do you know the illumnati exist trash?

[@aeternavictrix7861]

Christopher Adams it’s historic you moron

[@AlBeau3216]

"Conspiracy theorists are lazy." --- Bill Nye . I work with a couple of conspiracy idiots... Dr Nye hit the nail on its head.

[@JoeHinkle11]

I fell for a conspiracy theory a year ago. And because I told my friends, it was really embarrassing and hard to retract my views. Thank goodness I did though. I like being sane.

[@jamespatton7965]

What CT did you fall for?

[@thaisminaknnedy1065]

im so happy this video came out, this is indeed my school of life

[@exmythos7318]

so you're basically saying to not blindly believe in conspiracy theories and that everyone is hiding something but to believe on concrete proof...did I get this right?

[@theschooloflifetv]

Yes

[@exmythos7318]

cool,thanks for the answer ...

[@tsunderella5826]

+The School of Life Pin this comment plz, people are misunderstanding the message your video has, because you decided not to be a sheep and blindly believe in conspiracy theories, and people are too afraid that their favorite conspiracy theory may be wrong...

[@tsunderella5826]

+The School of Life If you look at the comments section its a warzone of ignorance, and lack of understanding of your message

[@sorryperson92]

How does it work? Let's upvote this comment so it rises above the cesspool please.

[@TheShapingSickness]

1. Always look for evidence and proof. Without proof a theory can't be sustained. 2. It's your job to determine if a theory is true or false. Instead of blindly believe it's true. 3. Don't put yourself over others because you might have different views, not everyone is naive because they don't believe in conspiracies. And accept defeat when a theory can't be proven. This is what I understand about this video. Can't really see why people are feeling offended or claiming this is anti conspiracy propaganda. It is funny as they are actually proving how conspiracy theorist are emotion driven people, and not critical thinkers all the time.

[@Rozmic]

I'm sure they're all just jokes. OR IS THAT PART OF THE CONSPIRACY?!?

[@TheShapingSickness]

Rozmic not really convinced they are jokes haha

[@Rozmic]

That's the fun of it, not knowing means you could create a whole bunch of conspiracy theories over what is really going on. YAY!

[@roidroid]

Good advice. Conditions like paranoid schizophrenia are generally made WORSE by stress. So publicly attacking conspiracy theorists can be counterproductive, if we want them to see reason. If it's due to an actual mental illness, the stress will make their condition worse.

[@CurrencyGod]

Everything is just a paradigm. Believing in conspiracy theories is a paradigm, religion is a paradigm, science is a paradigm, skepticism is a paradigm, and the list goes on. I'd say the best thing to do is not to cling to any paradigm at all, let go of all paradigms and stay open-minded to all the information out there and make your own conclusions out of it. I was once a catholic, got an entire religious half-sleeve tattoo, but then I started to study more about reality and I have given up my all religious beliefs. Also currently trying to remove this damn sleeve

[@rangedkid]

The School of Life probably thinks building 7 fell at free fall speed from fires.

[@sertaki]

Steel beams can't melt jet fuel.

[@blitcut9712]

Fire and a plane crash severely damaging the structure*

[@FrankZen]

Realove They think jet fuel can melt steel beams....

[@rangedkid]

A plane didn't hit building 7 lol. It had some scratches, hardly enough damage to make it collapse like that. We have Larry Silverstein, the owner of the buildings, who is on video saying they made the call to "pull it" in reference to building 7. He's also on video prior to the attacks saying they have a new design for the building and that they were going to destroy it. Oh and he took out an anti-terrorism insurance plan just before the attacks for which he took the insurance company to court and won $4.5 billion. BUT, this is all conspiracy talk of course. The financial elites of the world wouldn't CONSPIRE against their own people now, would they?

[@blitcut9712]

Realove Albeit not completly obvius to the untrained eye WTC 7 had been seriously compromised by a 20 story gash in one corner facing ground zero. It isn't strange it colapsed. Also, in demolition jargon "pull it" means ataching hauser cables to a building and using machines to pull it down. Needles to say that didn't happen. If it was an inscurance scam it was the worst in history. The buildings were way under insured and the measly payout of 4.6 billion dollars wouldn't be even close to cowering the costs of the attacks which are estimated to be around 7 billion. As for him doing anti-terrorism inscurance policy it's completly logical he did when you consider the fact that the towers had already been bombed in 1993 and there had been several uncovered terror attack plans against US landmarks.

[@daviddimalanta259]

"There are no truths. Only interpretations." I am a conspiracy theorist that sometimes questioned other theories. It was overwhelming and insane sometimes. They are born with only just guts, intuition and "hints" in life. I found this vid agreeable. We can't live fear forever but to live better. And as a part philosopher, to help humanity is through kindness. Do the right thing, not arguing who is right. Everyone suffered especially during pandemic times. We have doubts, fears and lots of skepticism. Some people called "sheeple" while others called "awaken". Now, it is confusing which is which

[@mstarr4812]

If you go with your 'gut' and feelings only, then- anything can be true. I can say Santa Clause is a Lizard. Evidence required- or nothing makes sense.

[@selfieglam2694]

fav one so far! I love your videos keep it up!

[@z4k4z]

Reassurance, kindness and love? What about the essential: ridicule?

[@ahmednagy7571]

i live in Egypt and we are taught that we won the Yom Kippur war although when i opened the wiki and the internet it said we lost and my teacher told me that it is west propaganda even if the neutral and allied countries with Egypt says we lost what should i belive?

[@Goooogle]

Ahmed Nagy You shouldn't just "believe" any of both sides. Research the topic by yourself, read historical documents, books, etc and you will find the truth by yourself. Of course finding the truth requires effort but it's your decision whether you want to live like a sheep or not. Good luck👍

[@ComUnSas]

As has already been said, best do your own research and reach your own conclusion. Mine is that, as is often the case with wars, both sides lost.

[@ahmednagy7571]

ComUnSas i did my research but if i say anything to my teachers they call it a lie and propaganda

[@ComUnSas]

Most teachers, in any country, are state employees and will believe and teach what the state instructs them to. Universities are supposed to be better environments than schools to ask difficult questions. That is true, sometimes.

[@ahmednagy7571]

ComUnSas well if you live in the middle East and have different opinions you will be hated and will be an outcast and might even be killed

[@MrMellek]

Sponsored by the government

[@jasonaus3551]

I think he paints Conspiracy Theorists with a very broad and condescending brush for the most part. I agree with the initial definitions given by him. I myself fall into intelligent skepticism

[@FrankZen]

Definition of conspiracy is when two or more people coordinate and plan to do wrong. That actually does happen believe it or not.

[@davidm2140]

So conspiracy theorists essentially try to boost low self esteem by gaining a sense of superiority through comparing there "elite" knowledge with the conventional wisdom? Or their trying to understand confusing times with convenient theories? While the correct strategy is a balance of trust and skepticism, the ability to entertain meta theories without blindly believing them. So critical thinking in other words.....what they try to teach you in college.

[@UnusuallyAwful]

Seems like too many in the comments don't understand the burden of proof concept, even after it was succinctly explained in this video.

[@darkwingscooter9637]

No, the video gets the concept of burden of proof badly wrong.

[@SanityVideo]

I know they already did a video on cynicism but you could easily replace "conspiracy theorist" with "cynic" in this video and most of it would still make sense. You can be skeptical without being cynical or paranoid. Some people see this as naive but it's not that you don't know there are risks or that you haven't thought about what could go wrong. There's just a point where you have to see the risks acknowledge to yourself that someone might steal something or make fun of you or whatever else they might do and move forward as if you trust someone because it's better to lose some things than never do anything worth doing. It's not naive to accept risks that you know about and have already decided are worth taking.

[@b0utch]

Our duty is not to prove or disprove anything, our duty is to examine the evidences and draw our own conclusion that we can then share with others to see if we have the same conclusion... then we can go deeper into the methodology and such, if we didn't get the same conclusion.

[@Terry-bl2xs]

this channel is sponsored by the big corporations

[@theschooloflifetv]

Oh yes?!

[@paramoreguate]

Ter Yeah right. I'm sure the "big corporations" want us to 'Change our partner through humour'. Seems logical.

[@Terry-bl2xs]

i wasnt being srs

[@codyhenderson7456]

Ter Thank you 😂😂😂

[@BardoJoe]

Poe's law - look it up

[@peterloohunt]

Really great video, but I think the optimistic conclusion about changing the minds of conspiracy theorists fails to recognize the toxic levels of arrogance and egotism that drive their beliefs. They're more akin to blind religious fundamentalists than to people with a slightly skewed 'political' world view. You can be as kind and understanding with them as you like (I've tried) but they're such dysfunctional arrogant people it's a waste of time engaging with them. They can't even touch upon the idea that they might just possibly be wrong.

[@tjm105]

Maybe they're right and are fed up with people not listening. But I get that they can be arrogant

[@peterloohunt]

@@tjm105 The evidence indicates they're not right.

[@MultiSciGeek]

This was a great video! Just what I needed right now. Could you guys also make a video on Fake News and a video on thinking rationally vs falling for this emotional type of thinking?

[@15h4n]

There's just so many of them around me, highly relate to this video. Now I know there is also a term for the believers and discretionary judges.

[@smaragd_]

There a tons of 'conspiracy theories' that were later revealed as true. Of course you wouldn't take theories as fact, but you need to keep an eye on them and investigate wherever and whenever you can if it's your interest until solid proof is there.

[@yuleen7882]

Just look at the title: How to Resist bla bla bla. Look at these words. First one is How and Second is Resist. What else starts from H and R? Hitler and Rise. :0

[@sertaki]

Also, Hitler wore clothes, and Trump wears clothes! Both even share the distinct feature of having a face!

[@bolivar1789]

How I wish I could show this video to my mother! She gave me a book once, telling me that it was the only thing that could save me from the "sinful life" that I am leading. It was a book about how and when to pray. And about everything that will happen to you in hell, if you don't. I am not religious, but I am curious, so I took a look at it, but it wasn't very interesting. Couple of months later my mother asked me about it, I said I didn't finish it. So she said: - You know exactly why you couldn't read that book, don't you? - Yes, I know. It wasn't really profound and it wasn't well written. - No! You couldn't read it because of the Devil that governs all your life. It kept you away from it!!! Well, I am telling this story because one more reason for all these theories people come up with is their need for self delusion. It is easier for my mother to see the devil all over the place in my life, rather than accepting to have a daughter who has nothing to do with what she wanted her to be. Watching this lesson, I also thought of another example. One thing I am always very enthusiastic about is to talk about the TSOL channel to everyone I know. Some people are interested, some are not, which is alright. But the worst reactions always come from the so called " intellectuals". Here is an example. ( I have posted it in form of a response to this comment)

[@bolivar1789]

Just this week a highly educated woman I know, who is a journalist, told me: - Oh yeah, you believe in that " de Botton guy" as if he is a prophet, right? I bet he believes that he is a prophet! It is such a malicious thing to say....To be honest, these people really depress me a lot. But how interesting...It was much easier for her to come up with such an absurd theory, rather than saying something so simple like : "How wonderful to see someone like Alain, who is so passionate about education. " In order to see things as they are, especially if they are about goodness, you have to be a " celebrator" , rather than a " cynic". Cynics in their bitterness and arrogance, feel themselves defied when they see genuine goodness and nobility in others. That's why, sadly, they put all the knowledge they have gathered through culture into the most absurd theories. Thanks a lot for this wonderful lesson. What I loved the most is this sentence you said about the people who do it the right way: " They are internally strong enough to take a chance to believe in the goodness and truthfulness of strangers."

[@Joke9972]

There is always this 'true' or 'false', excluding one another, within 3 dimensions and 'cause and effect' through 'time'. It becomes more obscure when you try to imagine subatomic mechanisms. There must be one enormous mistake we're consistently making, because we always seem to accept what we have been imagining before... but where is the problem?! I don't know.

[@martakaizak6520]

flat eartheres be like

[@manuman5319]

Marta Kaizak Religious people are not different

[@SpaceNavy90]

F A K E N E W S

[@jorgerocadas2436]

nice A E S T H E T H I C S you got there /music plays

[@SkySpiral8]

Also, people are uncomfortable with being uncertain. If there's not enough evidence to support or disprove a theory, they'll choose the one they FEEL like choosing. Instead of admitting "I don't know."

[@hemlockVape]

Still very valid today. Excellent coverage on a tough topic. TY 👊

[@Hartmansgrad]

Put on nice music, speak in gentle, sympathetic tones...infer that whilst those who hold opinions and beliefs opposed to the hegemony aren't bad or stupid, we should be very cautious about challenging the status quo because reasons. Oh School of Life, am I a conspiracy theorist to suggest that you are an ideological state apparatus?

[@damienscullytoo]

No, but you are a fool for not watching the video. How exactly does arguing for intelligent scepticism over mindless dismissal of everyone and everything as untrue a bad thing? This video seems to be in direct response to people like you.

[@georginagallagher9335]

Could you make a video explaining individuality. Specifically it's effect on self esteem and social media. I want to understand the purpose of it and why we feel the pressure be different. It would be really informative. Thank you

[@Fuar11]

The conspiracy theorists say you shouldn't blindly follow what our leaders & the media tell us and not to question it yet they claim that what they say is right and tell us not to question it. The IRONY.

[@profonicsgaming7870]

I've never once heard a conspiracy theorist say believe me I'm right. But I heard them say do your own research and come to a conclusion. And now I'm one lol most are conspiracy fact though. And some are fake to make us look bad/discredit and some are unprovable as of now.

[@lyon3511]

Where to begin! This is pure sophistry, starting with the "clickbait" title and ending in a bait and switch. Sophistry is subtle, sounding reasonable and believable, yet is a trick of wordplay (never mind delivery… here, the narrator’s voice is calm, reassuring; effortless like a hot knife through butter). Here’s a Latin phrase worth a little rumination, "Lupus est homo homini, non homo, quom qualis sit non novit" (English translation: “Man is no man, but a wolf, to a stranger”). Skip to the conclusion where the narrator states, “The intelligent skeptic proceeds through the world with an attitude of basic credence and initial benevolence. They dare to take things at face value, confident in their power to alter their views, perhaps quite quickly, in a much darker direction, were the facts to demand it. They are internally strong enough to take a chance to believe in the goodness and truthfulness of strangers.” The Greeks knew a few things about wisdom, and virtue for that matter, and one was to NEVER initially trust the truthfulness of strangers. Even in the recent past, “don’t talk to strangers” was considered common sense and sound advice. Trust is earned; polite caution to start; a wolf till proven otherwise. That was the epitome of an “Intelligent skeptic” and yet this doesn’t play well or sound “nice” to those who have spent their formative years marinating in a post-modern “we’re all just one and the same” narrative. This video paints their version of an “intelligent skeptic” as sane vs. those bold souls open to conspiracy theories, and the inevitable mockery of the mob, as a troubled neurotic with “emotional wounds” in need of more love and kindness. The narrator effortlessly concludes, “Conspiracy Theory is never really a problem of intellect. It’s an emotional wound that overpowers the higher faculties of the mind and is therefore best treated not with a barrage of countervailing facts […facts are “relative” in post-modern orthodoxy] but with reassurance, kindness, and love. For it is here that the problem invariably begins.” Wow! So, best “treated” with TLC and if that doesn’t work let’s call it “Authority Defiance Disorder” and perhaps medicate the conspiracy nut. And, yes, there actually is a newly minted disorder called “Oppositional Defiance Disorder.” The fact that powerful people work in secret to maintain their power is a no brainer. That psychopaths, most especially, want to hold onto their power and control, is also obvious to intelligent folk. Rumination: verb 1. to chew the cud, like a cow, for easy digestion 2. To meditate on, ponder …If you agree with the narrator’s “argument” in this video, think again. Ruminate on it.

[@RoxyStellar]

excellent ✔ concur #Lyon De Botton needs to check his objectivity & fluoride intake asap. 😼 ✌

[@SwissMade122]

You've a jumping to conclusions mindset. Like a crystal ball that only predicts misery. That's so typical for a conspiracy nutjob. you might have schizophrenia you should talk to a psychiatrist. better check that before it's to late.(the irony is intentional). Take your own medicin.

[@RoxyStellar]

gee ' thx for the prognosis Doctor 😹 now run along and play some more video games if it's OK with your mum

[@blitzchimera7601]

remember tower 7 and the gulf of tonkin

[@sertaki]

Remeber Bob the unicorn with Tourette syndrome.

[@paulgriffiths5389]

The emotional wound of the traumatised is where it begins. Who can I trust? I am vulnerable, unsafe and at risk. Better to be like this I suppose than be open to abuse all over again. I don't believe this though.

[@gooberfishin]

Cogent and kind. I really like your videos. Some of the comments below miss the point that lack of basic trust is a spiritual or mental wound. It's not normal and a good sign someone should find a professional person to talk to. Been there, done that.

[@myopicthunder]

Belief in ghosts is not a conspiracy theory its a superstition. The upheld or popular theory also needs evidence to back it up, overall your video is just stereotyping and insulting people who ask questions against the mainstream theory.

[@nemamja]

This conspiracy theorist description is to me,more like someone with mental illness.Schizophrenia,paranoia,something like that.

[@mysterymeme6141]

I strongly agree

[@myfrequencies1912]

"Conspiracy theorist", "schizophrenic", "paranoid". All just labels for mental phenomena which are becoming more & more common in modern times. Insight comes when you drop the label & just experience the experience.

[@MeghanMcDonald]

I used to believe in a lot of conspiracy theories. It was more-so laziness on my part. And an inability to accept the fact that human beings really just don't have it all together all the time. My mind would jump to: "Oh, no - they couldn't have messed up. Someone with that weight of responsibility couldn't possibly royally screw up that much." But, alas, upon working closer with a lot of high-ups, you begin to see that many times, humanity is just winging it. Although the key in this video is to remain intelligently sceptic.

[@albatross7327]

"a headless blunder operating under the illusion of a masterplan"-cube 1997 "there are known knowns...there are known unknowns...But there are also unknown unknowns, the ones we don't know we don't know."-Donald Rumsfeld We have the capacity to conceptualize ambiguity, and we fear it. Whether any theory is true or not, try wondering why it's so impertinent to discover, create, have or circulate answers. Especially with a sense of conviction to rival diehard religious faith. History and language is as fallible as our minds are. What's so wrong with saying "it's too big, it's too old, and I just don't fuckin know, certainly not for sure."

[@brumi1061]

I'm just shocked by the comment section. I didn't know there were so many conspiracists. You know, critical thinking works for both affirmations. Most of conspiracists just don't want to recognize they're wrong. And it's not because some conspiracies turned out to be true that ALL conspiracies are true.

[@aaa-vx2mc]

right, they're so annoying with their "propaganda" or "brainwashed", while they're the one that are being brainwashed i just want them to die, the gene pool must be cleaned

[@sertaki]

They are a minority, but a very, very, very loud one.

[@WeatherMondacicci]

I feel this way about the whole Pizzagate thing that is still going. It is nothing but pure speculation and correlating certain words, pictures, pizza etc to pedophilia. While I know that there is sex trafficking of children and that certain people in power are corrupt, this could be true however it should be wise to take their claims with a grain of salt.

[@luciferangelica]

Brumizateur not all conspiracy theories are true but it doesn't follow that none are. as many people on this comment section pointed out several have been proven: tuskegee, gulf of tonkin, etc

[@missant5324]

The title of this video should be how to deny truth and live in the lie !

[@yassassin6425]

Do you have the brain of an ant?

[@mariahspapaya]

I love this guys voice. Please narrate my life story so it sounds interesting

[@UnstoppableTramp]

To summarise. CAN'T SEE MY KEYBOARD AS MY HEAD IS IN THE SAND. Conspiracy theory is not our label. IT WAS A CREATED ONE

[@samimas4343]

the vid should have been about "how to resist conspiracies?" Not all of them are just crazy theories? After all, even some truths were considered conspiracy theories, at some point.

[@awfullyawful]

Trust only your religious leaders and government. And also, trust only your religious leaders and government.

[@6ix750]

Sal C that's the spirit

[@billySquanto]

Sal C [little kid voice] thanks School of Life

[@julz_and_toby9265]

I’m glad you have an open mind

[@franciscomatos4504]

you have too many videos and i wanna watch them all !!! Good Work

[@gailhobbs9752]

perfect. this perfectly differentiates between being a skeptic within reason and being a skeptic for the sake of being a skeptic.

[@kiwi-mf2do]

NOTIFICATION SQUAD!!!!

[@evolve4895]

Trust Government. Trust Royal families. Trust Freemasons. Trust the Rothschild family.

[@throughtheendlessinertia1915]

Ha.

[@kossieB]

Distrust everyone and think that everything is interconnected or part of a bigger scheme. You have it all figured out and the rest is too ignorant or in on the scheme.

[@evolve4895]

Bow to the Queen.

[@altaccout]

How can you trust something that doesn't exist or effect the real world?

[@rovicalwencandava275]

altaccout affect*

[@alexfloyd5730]

Here's the thing: the world is a messy place. Almost anything can be justified. Attention to evidence is not the way to deal with conspiracy theories, because if you look for evidence, you will find it. The problem is not the evidence you do find, it's the evidence you don't find or don't pay attention to. To find the truth you need to perform a tricky task, which is to simultaneously believe both sides of a story, only then will you give proper attention to the relevant details. Now this is basically impossible, because we are human and we are biased. So what can you do? You have to always give the most charitable interpretation to the opposing argument as is possible. You have to say "Look, I understand if you interpret this evidence in this way it may seem that you have a good argument, but there's these few problems I still can't figure out, and this other argument doesn't have the same problems, so I'm going to go with assuming the other argument is better UNTIL the points I've made have been addressed". Basically you need to understand why you believe something and what it would take to change your mind. If you don't understand exactly what it would take to change your mind you don't have a justified belief, you have dogma. Keep in mind that finding the truth is an incredibly difficult, and inexhaustible task. You will never be done. Honestly, a lot of things don't deserve the effort. You have to ask: is it worth it? If it is for you, then go for it. If it isn't, then just give it up. Who cares if you're right or wrong when it doesn't *really* matter? Not everyone will have the same standards as you though, so don't belittle people for taking that effort when you don't, just honestly admit "Look, I don't know enough to really agree or disagree with you, and I'm just going to leave it at that."

[@JSmith380]

We are a species that is hard wired to look for patterns and impose a sense of order on things. Certain personality types seem to lose control of this mental apparatus sometimes and start connecting dots that aren't really connected. We live in a chaotic, complicated world, and I suppose it may spring from an unconscious desire to make it seem simple and predictable. It also makes one feel important, as one who possesses this unorthodox, esoteric knowledge only perceptible to a privileged few.

[@kanohufharwab119]

Woah. I'm early. But whatever. Nobody cares. Have a good day! ^^ And try to be nice to someone else. Thanks :D

[@JamesZ32100]

Kanohuf Harwab We need more viewers like you!

[@felipelumo2705]

Why would I want to resist them...? Most of them are actually true !

[@bluemas5]

Felipe Lumo lol its called a theory for a reason

[@throughtheendlessinertia1915]

+All I Smoke is Gas GBE don't be a fucking idiot. That's the least effective thing you coulda said. Ever heard about the 'Theory of Gravity'? Oh but it's just s theory. What about the 'Theory of Evolution'? Bah, forget it. It's just a THEORY. What a dumb comment lmao

[@bluemas5]

Jimbob Sherwood you're stupid because that is the "Theory of everything"

[@bluemas5]

Jimbob Sherwood​ yea your comment made no sense dude whatsoever so you're a dumbass I can tell you dropped out of school

[@Finer_Details]

Like the flat earth being ruled by illuminati?

[@coolidgedollar2154]

If you uphold the value, please do a video on the merits of classical education and how it can lead to a good life. (Otherwise, please at least do a "pros and cons.")

[@penguin3456]

Please do a video on emotional sensitivity, that would be very helpful

[@AnnRiba]

Hmm why is School of Thought so adamant about about us not believe in conspiracy theories

[@sertaki]

Rewatch the video, and try to actually listen to what they say.

[@rollpoze]

But, they all turn out to be true lately...

[@Raymint]

Loved this!

[@NotNewton1]

Can you discuss the link between one's credulity and predisposition towards conspiracy theories in reference to psychology/sociology. Why for instance, schizophrenics are prone to extreme religiosity and how group pressures mold one's mind to conform to the that culture's unique irrationalities.

[@precious9155]

I think the school of life is trying to turn us into sheep lmao

[@damienscullytoo]

did you watch the video? If so you might look back on your comment with regret.

[@precious9155]

Radioactive Snake it was more or less a joke

[@damienscullytoo]

Poe's law. I can't distinguish satire anymore. This is why we need videos like this.

[@augustuslc]

If after watching this video, you feel that its purpose it’s turning you into a sheep that means that you are a conspiracy theorist, and your view of reality its very distorted.

[@precious9155]

augustuslc Are you fucking serious?