Reptilians, Russian bots and rationalism
By Adam Borowski
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Interdimensional reptilians rule the world via a network of shadowy organizations. This seems to be one of the most popular conspiracy theories these days. The term “conspiracy theory” used to carry negative connotations in the mainstream. You know, tin foil hats (to protect yourself against alleged electronic harassment) and all that.
Does that mean there are no conspiracies in the world? Of course not. The world is fraught with conspiracies ― the problem is, in the era of fake news mixed with post-truth mentality, the roles have been reversed. If voicing an opinion that goes against the conspiratorial grain, you may be called an agent of the powers that be ― or a Russian bot, if you prefer.
YouTube videos recorded by random people are the new source of authority for many across the world. With a record-high distrust of those in positions of power (hardly surprising), people are desperately searching for a semblance of stability. This is where celebrity culture comes in. If you've ever worked with children, you may be familiar the following line of reasoning: “Oh, this YouTube video has only 200,000 views? Who cares, I am not watching it.” In these tumultuous times, celebrities offer a glimpse into a different, usually better, world. The world of winners.
There are probably YouTube content creators who hold more sway over people's minds than many governments. What if a popular YouTuber was a psychopath, wreaking havoc on the minds of his followers? Could his free speech be curtailed? These are the dilemmas of the modern world.
I read an engrossing exchange of views on a website centering on K-pop. As someone who does not know much about K-pop, I am amazed at the sheer impact it has on South Korean society. Then again, spheres of life criss-cross one another: a mild disagreement over a music group can metastasize into a heated argument on nationalism. Anyone doing business internationally knows the importance of cultural sensitivity, where a faux pas can jeopardize a hefty contract. That, or you can always blame the Illuminati for manipulating your business deals behind the scenes.
Don't get me wrong. I like a convoluted conspiracy. I even have a great book idea for one.
I can already hear various truth-seekers accusing me of being an illuminati disinformation agent. How dare I trivialize the truth about reptilians masquerading as celebrities? Walking, talking ruling-class reptilians in stilettos, hissing their dismay? This particular image has been seared into my mind forever.
Welcome to the twilight zone, ladies and gentlemen.
Adam Borowski (adam.borowski1985@gmail.com) teaches English to students at all levels of advancement. His short novel can be found at: https://existentialtableau.wordpress.com/2018/01/14/existential-tableau/