Welcome to the Conspiracy Kitchen.
What is the Conspiracy Kitchen?
It is a public engagement exhibit introducing a conspiracy theory's key ingredients. It was cooked up by Dr Daniel Jolley, Prof Karen Douglas and Dr Yvonne Skipper.
Here’s a short blurb:
“Belief in conspiracy theories is booming in the 21st century, and our research suggests that age 14 is when many of us may become curious about these intriguing ideas. In our exhibit, we will uncover the mysteries behind conspiracy theories and empower you with the superpower to spot them. Step into our 'Conspiracy Kitchen,' where you'll get to cook up your own conspiracy theory. Instead of mixing up cake batter, you'll pick 'ingredients' to create your very own conspiracy theory. This interactive activity will uncover the secrets behind why conspiracy theories are so irresistible, empowering you with the skills to spot conspiracy theories in the wild. Join us and become a chef in the world of conspiracy theories!”
How does it work?
Visitors are asked to pick a plastic piece of food from each type of ingredient (protagonist (actor), actions and motives) to make a ‘conspiracy theory’.
Some of the results will be amusing, but a key purpose of this exhibit is to identify what makes a popular conspiracy theory and prompt a conversation on why some combinations could make a long-lasting conspiracy theory (and others not) and how this knowledge can be used to ‘spot’ a conspiracy theory.
What have previous guests said about the Conspiracy Kitchen?
“Conspiracy kitchen led to critical reflection”
“Lots of possibilities in Conspiracy Kitchen”
“Thought it would be too mature [for younger children], but not the case”
“Understandable why people believe in conspiracy theories”
The Conspiracy Kitchen was launched at the British Academy’s 2022 Summer Showcase. It has then appeared at Science in the Park (2023) and Green Hustle (2023). It has also appeared at various outreach events.
Can I make my own Conspiracy Kitchen?
Yes. Daniel has written a Crib Sheet explaining how to set up the Conspiracy Kitchen (and the important ingredients). You can download it here.
If you use our resources and make your own Conspiracy Kitchen, please let us know via e-mail (daniel.jolley@nottingham.ac.uk) or Twitter (@DrDanielJolley #ConspiracyKitchen).
If you do not fancy setting it up yourself but want to try it out, Karen Douglas and the Conspiracy_FX team have set up an online Conspiracy Generator. Play it here.
Daniel introduces the Conspiracy Kitchen during the British Academy’s Summer Showcase.
Watch below 👇