Red Pill, Blue Pill

How to Counteract the Conspiracy Theories That Are Killing Us

By: David Neiwert

Narrated by: Matthew Josdal

Conspiracy theories are killing us. Once confined to the fringes of society, this worldview now has adherents numbering in the millions - extending right into the White House. This disturbing look at this alt-right threat to our democratic institutions offers guidance for counteracting the personal toll this destructive mindset can have on relationships and families.

Author David Neiwert - an investigative journalist who has studied the radical right for decades - examines the growing appeal of conspiracy theories and the kind of personalities that are attracted to such paranoid, sociopathic messages. He explains how alt-right leaders are able to get such firm holds on the imaginations of their followers and chronicles the destruction caused by the movement's most virulent believers.

Colloquially, this recruitment to alt-right ideologies is called "getting red-pilled" - a metaphor for when believers of conspiracy theories become convinced that their alternate universe is real. Uniquely, and optimistically, Neiwert provides a "blue pill toolkit" for those who are dealing with conspiracy theorists in their own lives, including strategies drawn from people who counsel former far-right extremists who have renounced their former beliefs.

©2020 David Neiwert (P)2020 Tantor

Have a conspiracy nut in your life?

Neiwert does a great job not only explaining the possible harm of conspiracy thinking, but also provides an antidote. Important read for every American in 2020, especially for those of us who have relationships with conspiracy nuts.

A Good Resource If Your Uncle Has You Worried

I've seen some other books delve more deeply into these topics, but if you want to understand the origins of the modern wave of conspiracy theory, and also how to best broach the topic with a troubled family member or friend, this is the book for you.

Why do groups like QAnon believe such wacky things?

The author gives a great overview of conspiracy theories, what they are, and how our society should go about reducing the harm they cause. A look at the psychological and social aspects of conspiracy theories. In our contemporary world, full of “fake news” this is a must read. Why do people follow groups like Qanon? Find out!

Great mix of examples and analysis

Perfect introduction for those of us trying to understand and cope with friends, family and neighbors who have entered the rabbit hole of conspiracy theory. Well grounded in realistic expectations for successful interactions. I particularly appreciate the mix of historical context, research and modern considerations that lead to concrete steps.

Robotic

While the book was highly informative I was put off by the narrator? Was it a narrator or was it actually one of those robotic programs that read it? Because I heard barely a tone of humanity in the voice. That almost ruined it. It’s very hard to get into with that computer sounding voice. I should’ve listened to other reviewer‘s that said this, but I was so interested in the subject. no offense because I know it really is a human but not the perfect choice for a narration