Why do Americans love conspiracy theories?

Civics 101 by NHPR

Jul 28, 202643:18Government & Organizations

Conspiracy theories are not new in the United States, but over the years they have taken on a life and power of their own. How did conspiracy theories become so entrenched in the American mind? Why is it that, even if we...

Related Episodes

Continue listening to more episodes from Civics 101.

What Does it Mean to Be a Democrat or a Republican?

Oct 6, 2026 - 44:08

Today we look at the creation and evolution of the two major parties in the US; the Republican Party and...

How a Bill (REALLY) Becomes a Law

Sep 29, 2026 - 28:10

Our final "Back to School" episode is a nod to how we started in the first place. Our show was created to...

What is Federalism?

Sep 22, 2026 - 27:56

A tug of war, a balancing act, two dancers dragging each other across the floor. This is the perpetual eb...

U.S. Versus: The Two Party System

Sep 15, 2026 - 29:40

Americans often take issue with our two-party system. So what other options are out there? Today, with th...

These United Hosts

Sep 8, 2026 - 47:58

In which we take an historical look at the interplay between marriage and democracy, and Hannah and Nick...

Our 250th Annual Trivia Episode!

Sep 1, 2026 - 31:16

Not really. But we send one of our own out in style by asking (and answering) some very tough questions....

Article II of the Constitution

Aug 25, 2026 - 37:59

Article II, which lays out the powers, duties, and limits on presidential powers, is one of the most deba...

SCOTUS Decision Roundup

Aug 19, 2026 - 36:03

The Supreme Court wrapped it's 2025-2026 term and headed off on summer recess, so we're running through t...