Conspiracy Theories and Critical Thinking Vocabulary

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on a discussion about conspiracy theories, deepfakes, and critical thinking terms.

Deepfakes

Videos that have been manipulated to look and sound exactly like a real person, often used for scams or funny internet content but becoming a real problem.

Suspect

To have an idea that something is probably true or that someone is probably guilty, without certain proof.

Separate fact from fiction

The act of distinguishing between real information and made-up or imaginary details.

Spread a conspiracy theory

To distribute or share a belief that some covert but influential organization is responsible for a circumstance or event.

Make extraordinary claims

To state something that is highly unusual, remarkable, or hard to believe.

Jump to conclusions

To make a decision or form an opinion too quickly without having all the relevant facts.

Fall for a conspiracy theory

To be deceived or tricked into believing a conspiracy theory.

Manipulate public opinion

To influence and change the collective attitudes or beliefs of the general population.

Speculate

To form a theory or conjecture about a subject without firm evidence.

Deny

To state that one does not admit the truth or existence of something.

Assume

To suppose that something is the case, without proof.

Read between the lines

To look for or find a meaning that is intended but not stated directly.

Expose the truth

To reveal the real facts about a situation, especially when they have been hidden.

Connect the dots

To realize that different ideas or pieces of information are linked to each other.

Something doesn't add up

An expression used when a situation or explanation seems inconsistent or illogical.

Clues

Pieces of evidence or information used in the detection of a crime or solving of a mystery.

Strong evidence

Information or facts that are very solid and provide clear proof for a claim.

Mysterious

Difficult or impossible to understand, explain, or identify.

Reliable source

A person, book, or document that provides accurate and trustworthy information.

Take something with a pinch of salt

To remain skeptical of something and not believe it to be completely true or accurate.

Controversial

Giving rise or likely to give rise to public disagreement or heated discussion.

Allegedly

Used to convey that something is claimed to be the case or have taken place, although there is no proof.

Obviously

In a way that is easily perceived or understood; clearly.

Convince

To cause someone to believe firmly in the truth of something.

Rumors

Stories or reports of uncertain or doubtful truth which are being circulated.

Far-fetched

Unlikely and unconvincing; implausible.

Exaggerate

To represent something as being larger, better, or worse than it really is.