BBC Publishes Cringe Guide For ‘Talking To Conspiracy Theorist Relatives’ At Christmas
Sat 10:29 am +01:00, 26 Dec 2020Broadcaster says ‘keep clam and carry on’ if your uncle starts ranting about our freedoms being taken away
“You’re dreading the moment. As your uncle passes the roast potatoes, he casually mentions that a coronavirus vaccine will be used to inject microchips into our bodies to track us,” the ‘five point guide’ outlines, adding “Or maybe it’s that point when a friend, after a couple of pints, starts talking about how Covid-19 ‘doesn’t exist’.”
“Or when pudding is ruined as a long-lost cousin starts spinning lurid tales about QAnon and elite Satanists eating babies.”
Cringe.
Ok, so what does one do in this horrible situation, oh mighty and wise Big BBC Brother?
“Keep calm; don’t be dismissive; encourage critical thinking; ask questions; don’t expect immediate results.”
Eh? So don’t immediately shut them down as a dangerous conspiracy theorist who spreads fake news? Just retain that thought in your head while you deeply patronise them with your received BBC approved spoon-fed opinion.
OK then.
Perhaps chase them down the street screeching questions about why they are not wearing a face mask? Probably a good tactic.
Next tip?
“People who believe conspiracy theories often say: “I do my own research.”
Well, how dare they believe something not published by the BBC. How bloody awful.
“The problem is that their research tends to consist of watching fringe YouTube videos, following random people on Facebook, and cherry-picking evidence from biased Twitter account.”
So we take away their social media accounts then, right?
“Your aim is not to make them less curious or sceptical, but to change what they are curious about, or sceptical of.”
Ah, OK. Direct them to the BBC website then?
Any more tips, oh corporate board of directors earning millions per year from scalping old ladies by pretending they have to pay you to own a TV?
“Focus on those who are pushing these ideas, and what they might be getting,” says Claire Wardle. “For instance, financial gain by selling health supplements, or reputational gain in building a following.”
Yeah, those evil conspiracy theorists, making a living AND selling vitamins that are good for your health.
What’s next
GandalfBBC?“Conspiracy theories tend to be simple, powerful stories that explain the world. Reality is complex and messy, which is harder for our brains to process.”
Ouch, thinking hurts too much. Got it.
Wait, so pedos don’t run the world then?





