Show notes
Join the editors as they continue their discussion of the role of myth in political life, examining the "QAnon" conspiracy theory. What does Q tell us about myth and its role in politics? Is there precedent for conspiracy theories like Q in the American past? How is Q different from past conspiracy theories?Next week, we will conclude our discussion of the role of myth in political life by discussing the possibility of a global myth, whether myths are ultimately natural or socially constructed, and what policies might make American myths more believable.--To comment on this episode or sign up for our newsletter, click here.To listen to written articles from Spectacles read aloud, click here.Further Reading"Heeding Steve Bannon’s Call, Election Deniers Organize to Seize Control of the GOP — and Reshape America’s Elections," by Isaac Arnsdorf, Doug Bock Clark, Alexandra Berzon and Anjeanette Damon, for ProPublica. "Qanon Is More Important Than You Think," by Adrienne LaFrance in The Atlantic."The Paranoid Style in American Politics," by Richard Hofstadter in Harper's Magazine.Table of Contents00:00 - Introduction00:32 - Q Excerpts02:57 - Recap of Last Week04:39 - Today's Topic05:50 - What is Q, basically?09:33 - Connection to Election Fraud Conspiracy12:34 - Q As Myth, Religion17:48 - Q As Reactionary Myth, Fantasy21:26 - Q's Roots in American Covenantal Myth23:53 - History of American Paranoia31:15 - American Tension b/t Universality, Particularity35:20 - The Power of The Internet42:39 - The Balkanization of American Narratives43:13 - Next Week's Topic43:54 - Signing Off
