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Comment by sandworm101 | Hacker News Reader

Is there a book on how to not talk about conspiracy theories? I have some formerly right leaning elderly relatives who are now just plain crazy. They won't stop talking about ridiculous conspiracies. I don't open emails from them anymore. I've given up trying and wish they would at least stop talking to me about them.

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There's the one upping approach, when they start talking about how the moon landing was faked you could call them sheep for believing the moon exists.

I don't think it's a good strategy for improving discourse, but some people probably find the creative element enjoyable.

The "Four Yorkshiremen" approach to conspiracy theory discussions :-))

Back in my day, the Earth was static toroid at the centre of the solar system

My bro does this. I'm not convinced it works as intended. But does give him another dopamine hit.

To give you a sense of his motivations: He's a former debate captain, coach, judge. Pendants about grammar, punctuation, pronunciation. Still believes logic and facts are persuasive. Especially said louder, with more sarcasm and derision.

I'm trying to be less like that. Old habits are hard to change.

Keep upping the wackiness until the other person is the one trying to talk you down, then nourish the arrow of scepticism and reason.

Conspiracy theories fill holes in peoples’ lives (lack of belonging, lack of achievement, lack of recognition). Help them fill those holes with something else.

Ooo err

Send them to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q6EzSbI-zOk It is from the INSIDE of the Truth movement, and will convince them to stop talking to everyone about conspiracies - as that's useless and damages human relationships. Also helps them to find meaning in their life.

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