Artwork: Conspiracy Capitaliser

Artists: Robert Collins

Response by: Prof Eileen Culloty – Deputy-Director, Institute for Future Media, Democracy and Society, DCU School of Communications

The Conspiracy Capitaliser is a timely exploration of the profit-driven mechanics behind digital conspiracy culture, especially as we enter an AI age that will allow false content and claims to be manufactured and amplified with ease. Previously it was assumed – by psychology academics and many others –  that conspiracy theories were the preserve of a lunatic fringe. Consequently, it was easy for the mainstream to dismiss conspiracy theorists as people operating on the margins. Against this, sociologists argued that some conspiracy theories were clearly a way for the marginalised to contest power and to express their genuine concerns about the motivations of authorities. For example, African American communities have endorsed medical conspiracy theories, which is usually explained in light of the corrupt and abusive history of medical testing on that community. In this important debate between psychologists and sociologists, there is merit on both sides. But the argument has been superseded entirely by the growth of conspiracy culture on digital platforms. No doubt, some of those drawn into online conspiracy culture could be described as ‘lunatics’ and some have genuine motivations. But the role of money is a key driver and actors in Ireland take their cues from those who make money in the US. They are the role models.

Emerging from Robert Collins’ research into the rise of right-wing social media influencers, Conspiracy Capitaliser captures how conspiracy culture, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, thrived on a network of for-profit actors. Unfortunately, much media coverage focussed on the outrageous claims that surfaced online rather than the dynamics behind them. One consequence of that was that many ordinary – possibly vulnerable – people were stigmatised and ridiculed.  Instead, we should focus our attention – and anger –  on those who exploit and profit from the fears and anxieties of others. This artwork captures that core point. By simulating the generation of “new controversies,” it underscores the ease of spreading misinformation. In that, it is reminiscent of efforts to ‘pre-bunk’ disinformation through games that let people act as manipulators to understand how easy it is.

As we emerge into the AI dawn, the debates about how to conceptualise conspiracy theories will continue and the debates about how to moderate and regulate digital media will become more acute. Through all of that, we will need artworks like this one that ask to stop and reflect and see a bigger picture.

Link to view more information on the artwork: https://2024.betafestival.ie/exhibitions/unsettling-the-algorithm/The%20Museum%20of%20Ethics%20and%20Interplanetary%20Technologies%20-%20A%20Dowsing%20Poster