06-24-2016, 01:51 PM
(06-24-2016, 01:08 PM)Blindgreed1 Wrote:(06-24-2016, 12:52 PM)HairOfTheDog Wrote: No, Gunnar.That's not entirely true: "the idea that many important political events or economic and social trends are the products of secret plots that are largely unknown to the general public."
A conspiracy theory doesn't apply to something someone fears will happen in the future.
A conspiracy theory deals with unproven allegations of covert activity to explain past events.
Well, the alleged secret plots had to be devised before they were executed, of course. But, you're right Gunnar, conspiracy theories can sometimes be applied to present and future events.
In the context of what we've been discussing, Donovan's concern that Donald Trump has the temperament and mindset to kill or encamp Americans if elected President is not a conspiracy theory. It's a concern based on an assessment and doesn't suggest that Donald Trump is seeking the presidency in order to execute a covert plot, or that he's a puppet of some secret organization seeking the White House to wreak havoc on certain segments of the population, or anything like that.
I haven't read any conspiracy theories about Donald Trump here at Mock or in the media. I've read condemnation of his public statements against large groups of people, his willingness to inflict financial hardship on others for personal gain, his frequent lies and false claims to support his stated opinions on the issues, his years-long campaign contending Obama is a Muslim born in Kenya...all facts leading to fears that a Trump presidency would harm the country... That's not conspiracy theory.
I've also read some concerns about a Hillary presidency based on the fact that she's told some documented lies, negative opinions regarding her judgment and general character, etc. That's not conspiracy theory either.
But, I have read many Hillary conspiracy theories presented as fact by posters at Mock, by Donald Trump and company, in the media.....in relation to the Benghazi terror attack, the email server, the death of JFK Jr, the death of Vince Foster, uranium deals, etc...
So, what's been posted in regard to Trump is not interchangeable with conspiracy theories posted in regard to Hillary Clinton. Still...it's all interesting to read for the most part.