Evaluating conspiracy claims as public sphere communication

Conspiracy theories have become a ubiquitous feature of contemporary culture. From communication studies perspective, conspiracy undermine democratic by misleading the public. However, normative concept public sphere also upholds values giving visibility to diverse perspectives and facilitating reasoned debate. Thus, academics can acknowledge harms claims while being open, in principle, their potential contribution The challenge, course, is evaluate implications claims; that may be difficult ascertain change over time as new evidence emerges. This position elucidated through an analysis found mainstream alternative media coverage Syrian conflict. Much debate centres on ideas about trustworthiness impartiality journalists experts whereby efforts establish facts are superseded received credibility sources. Ultimately, conflict indicates valuable for provided there impartial actors willing investigate provide clarification