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Chapter 19. From strategic depiction of conspiracies to conspiracy theories

RT’s and Sputnik’s representations of coronavirus infodemic

image of Chapter 19. From strategic depiction of conspiracies to conspiracy theories

Our study focuses on the coverage of coronavirus-related conspiracies/conspiracy theories published in spring 2020 (n = 146) in Anglophone media outlets RT and Sputnik that are financed by the Russian government. In our analysis we rely on a semiotic approach to strategic (conspiracy) narratives. Our study demonstrates a significant shift in the representation of conspiracies: instead of the depiction of malicious acts of secret grouping, RT and Sputnik narrate about alarming effects of conspiracy theories. Coronavirus-related conspiracy theories are represented as a means that the US is using in blame games against China and Russia, as well as a propaganda-tool for scaring the Western audience.

  • Affiliations: 1: University of Tartu

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