Research a Conspiracy Theory

Choose one conspiracy theory or “fake news” story you have heard about or want to research.
Step 1: Thinking
First, find information on that theory online. You can use any sources that seem appropriate (even forums where people may be spreading fake news or conspiracy theories).
When did the theory/story start circulating?
Where does it show up first?
Whom does it seem to benefit?
What happens as a result of this story?
Why does it take off?
Does it disappear? If so, why?
Are you convinced by it? Why?
Does it stand up to the scientific method?
Step 2: Searching
Second, go to the RIC Library Databases like JSTOR and MLA or HELIN (books) and find at least one relevant scholarly, academic source (peer-reviewed, published book or article).
What does this scholarly article or book teach you about the theory or story?
The source does not have to be exactly on your particular topic, but it can be about stories, rumors, politics, elections, history, science, vaccines, or anything related to your theory or story.
Step 3: Decide what you think about what you learned.
Where do you stand on these kinds of stories/theories?
How do you explain their existence?
Why do you think people believe in them or spread them?
How does one challenge them?
Are you convinced by the theory? Why? Is there enough proof?
Your answers to these kinds of questions will be your argument or thesis.
Step 4: Drafting
Make sure your thesis is clear in your introduction.
Have an intriguing title for your paper that indicates your argument.
Save your document with your last name and an abbreviated title.
Start the Works Cited page right away.
Do not wait until the end to cite your sources!
Scholarly, Secondary, Peer-Reviewed Sources: While you may use web sites or reference sources (dictionaries, encyclopedias) for some information in your final paper they will not count in your one required academic source (published books and journal articles) written by experts and reviewed by other experts). Judge your sources very carefully. Remember to view web information with a very critical eye. The following also will not count in this part of your research:
• No websites
• No newsletters
• No newspaper articles
• No magazine articles
• No textbooks or chapters
• No book reviews: (watch out for this one since you will likely find a
number of these instead of longer scholarly sources)
• No encyclopedias or dictionaries
• No blogs
• No novels
• No short stories
• No memoirs or diaries
• No films
• No interviews
You can use these in addition to your more general research, but not for your scholarly source

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