Is Everything a Conspiracy? A Participatory Discussion on the Labyrinths of Disinformation

The online meeting “Is Everything a Conspiracy? Deciphering the Labyrinths of Disinformation,” promoted by the Association of Former Students of the Jewish Schools of Turin (Asset), attracted considerable participation and interest.
The initiative is part of a long-standing commitment by Asset to create spaces for open discussion on complex and timely issues. This commitment, especially after October 7, 2023, has resulted in numerous meetings with experts, scholars, and witnesses, offering consistently well-attended opportunities for dialogue and in-depth discussion.
The evening focused on Massimo Rostagno‘s book, Dizionario minimo dei complottismi (Minimum Dictionary of Conspiracies), which—as the author emphasized—was born from a civic inspiration: to offer “a small contribution to the health of democracy, currently tainted by toxic narratives.”
During the discussion, it emerged that conspiracy theories are not simply a set of unfounded theories, but a way of interpreting reality that attempts to simplify complexity, offering linear explanations in a context that many perceive as increasingly uncertain. A phenomenon that often responds to a need rather than a simple lack of information.
Klaus Davi also addressed this point, highlighting the role that certain categories—such as “elite” and “strong powers”—play in contemporary language. These expressions function as interpretative shortcuts, capable of quickly identifying a perpetrator and making the story more immediate and shareable.
At the same time, it emerged how these narrative codes can sometimes, even unconsciously, recall older patterns linked to the construction of the enemy, including those of anti-Semitism.
Claudia Conte drew attention to the cultural and emotional dimension of the phenomenon, emphasizing how conspiracy theories tap into fears and identity needs, offering coherent and reassuring narratives in a world that often seems difficult to interpret.
The final dialogue with the audience was particularly significant, as they posed numerous questions and shared reflections, confirming how deeply felt and close these themes are to the experience of many.
The meeting represents a further step in a journey that Asset continues to build, offering valuable opportunities for listening, discussion, and shared growth.

By Tiziana Allegra