The Sandy Hook Conspiracy Theories: A Case Study

Abstract

This project provides an in-depth exploration of the conspiracy theories that emerged after the 2012 school shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School. As well as debunking these conspiracy theories, the project also explains how said theories have been used in subsequent mass-shootings to the same effect--that being, the prevention of reforming gun control laws. What happened at Sandy HookElementary School? Why did misinformation begin to spread? Who believed the conspiracy theories and why? How can future school shootings be avoided, and why are conspiracy theories standing in the way of a safe future for children? "The Sandy Hook Conspiracy Theories: A Case Study" attempts to answer all these questions and more by explaining important context, providing insight into the minds of both propagators and victims, and asking questions about the nature of conspiracy theories and how they spread on the internet.