- Level Foundation
- Duration 10 hours
- Course by University of California, Santa Cruz
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Offered by
About
This course is for anyone interested in conspiracy theories. Millions of people around the world believe in conspiracy theories like The Protocols of the Elders of Zion, or that AIDS was deliberately created by governments and pharmaceutical companies, or that on September 11, 2001, the World Trade Center complex was downed not by airplanes, but by a “controlled demolition” masterminded by the United States national security state. What are we to make of these claims? What do they say about our societies? How do they impact history, or reflect larger historical trends? How do we understand the context of these ideas? And how do we understand them in relation to objectively confirmed conspiracies, of which there are at least as many? How do we know when a conspiracy has really happened, and cannot simply be dismissed as a ‘theory’? We will grapple with these questions together through short videos, quizzes that will help you check your understanding of the material, discussion, and a final project in which you will create your own conspiracy theory.Modules
Video Lectures
1
Assignment
- Module 1 Quiz
3
Videos
- Introduction
- What is a Conspiracy?
- Spotting Conspiracy Theories
Video Lectures
1
Assignment
- Module 2 Quiz
1
Videos
- About Hofstadter
Video Lectures
1
Assignment
- Module 3 Quiz
3
Videos
- World War I
- The Jews and the Protocols
- The Protocols Exposed
Video Lectures
1
Assignment
- Module 4 Quiz
4
Videos
- Getting in to the War
- WWI and its Dissenters
- WWI Conspiracy Theories
- Acknowledgments
Video Lectures
1
Assignment
- Module 5 Quiz
6
Videos
- Dealey Plaza
- Oswald
- The Warren Commission
- The Garrison Trial
- FAQ on JFK
- Further Reading
Video Lectures
1
Assignment
- Module 6 Quiz
5
Videos
- Introduction to Marilyn Monroe
- Monroe Conspiracy Theories
- Diana the Idol
- Why Diana Conspiracies
- Conspiracy Culture
Video Lecture
1
Assignment
- Final quiz!
1
Peer Review
- Create your own conspiracy theory!
2
Videos
- How to create your own conspiracy theory
- Conclusion
Auto Summary
"Conspiracy Planet" is an intriguing exploration within the Arts & Humanities domain, designed for anyone fascinated by the world of conspiracy theories. Led by an expert instructor, this foundational course delves into widely believed conspiracies, from historical allegations like The Protocols of the Elders of Zion to modern claims surrounding events such as the September 11 attacks. Learners will critically analyze the societal and historical implications of these theories, distinguish between unfounded claims and confirmed conspiracies, and understand the broader context in which these ideas emerge. The course is structured to include engaging short videos, quizzes to test comprehension, interactive discussions, and a unique final project where participants will get creative by crafting their own conspiracy theory. Spanning a comprehensive 600 minutes, "Conspiracy Planet" offers flexible subscription options through Coursera, including Starter and Professional plans, making it accessible to a wide audience. Whether you're a curious beginner or seeking to deepen your understanding of conspiracy theories, this course promises a thorough and thought-provoking educational experience.

Matthew Lasar