4 ms·
I don't think this is a good example. If your position is, "We should do X because of Y" and I respond "conspiracy theory", I'm taking the position that Y is i
by ineptech 5y ago
I don't think this is a good example. If your position is, "We should do X because of Y" and I respond "conspiracy theory", I'm taking the position that Y is inaccurate. You could respond e.g. by citing evidence of it.
If OTOH I respond, "Ah, it is what it is", I'm disagreeing that we should do X but without taking any position on Y or explaining why I disagree. That's what TFA is discussing - ways to weasel out of a discussion without being pinned down to a position or an argument.
- HKH2 5y agoNo, 'conspiracy theory' is used more as a cliche now. It is a status-quo preserving device in media narratives, because you don't want to be a flat-earther, right?
- ineptech 5y agoPerhaps, but it's generally done in the context of arguing against the idea. The connotation of a thought-terminating cliche is that it is a dodge, an avoidance strategy. It fills in the space where a real statement would go, and fulfills the social requirement of needing to say something, without saying anything.