#82. How to Build a Conspiracy Theory - Dr. John Kerr
From Smooth Brain Society by Smooth Brain Society
February 19, 2026 · 1h 21m · Season 2 · Episode 82
About this episode
Dr. John Kerr discusses the psychological roots of belief and disbelief in scientific consensus and the complexities of conspiracy theories.
Dr. John Kerr, Senior Research Fellow in the Department of Public Health at the University of Otago and Science Lead for the Public Health Communication Centre, discusses the psychological roots of belief and disbelief in scientific consensus. He shares his journey from neuroscience to science communication, exploring the complexities of conspiracy theories, misinformation, and the impact of AI on public perception. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the psychological t...
People in this episode
Host: Smooth Brain Society
Guest: Dr. John Kerr
Topics covered
- conspiracy theories
- psychology
- science communication
- misinformation
- AI impact
- public perception
Keywords
- conspiracy theory
- psychology
- science communication
- misinformation
- AI
- public health
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: University of Otago, Public Health Communication Centre
More episodes of Smooth Brain Society
- #90. Why Toddlers Can't Help Themselves (Yet) - Dr. Abigail Fiske · June 11, 2026 · 1h 6m
- #89. Neuroscientists Answer Your Questions: Trauma, AI, Alcohol, Hot Dogs & Dark Neuroscience · May 28, 2026 · 1h 6m
- #88. Eating Disorders Beyond Western Stereotypes - Dr Bailey Rose · May 14, 2026 · 1h 7m
- #87. How Prehabilitation Can Improve Cancer Outcomes - Dr. Chris Gaffney · April 30, 2026 · 1h 1m
- #86. Thinking Together: Humans, AI, and Better Decisions - Dr. Eeshan Hasan · April 16, 2026 · 1h 16m
- #85. Men's Health Beyond the Stereotypes - Associate Professor. Gareth Terry · April 2, 2026 · 1h 35m
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Smooth Brain Society podcast page.