Simulating the Father: University Discourse in Conspiracy Theories
Gasimova, Yasmin
Gasimova, Yasmin
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Abstract
That advocates of conspiracy theories often mimic academic language whilst simultaneously disposing of academic authority is a widely recognisable phenomenon. They often appeal to concepts such as observable research, hard evidence, and objective fact in maintaining their certainty, while remaining in steadfast distrust of such knowledge when its produced by traditional educational institutions. By positioning conspiracy theories within the Lacanian structure of psychosis, I argue that this is a result of the psychotic subject�s attempt to reconstitute itself through the university discourse. As Lacan formulated, the psychotic subject forecloses the Master Signifier, creating a hole in the Other. The response to foreclosing the Master Signifier is to substitute its function by reorganising meaning through a delusion. I argue that the truth of the university discourse - its affirmation of the Master Signifier - cannot be repressed and returns to the subject in the register of the Real, as some certain omnipotent conspiracy directly responsible for this truth. Where university discourse disavows the social relation and performativity necessary to affirm the authority of its content, the psychotic subject elevates and utilises this form as the guarantor of truth of their reconstructed world. As such, attempts to curb the phenomenon of conspiracy theories through oppositional assertions of knowledge via university discourse necessarily exacerbate it.
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Date
1/1/2026
Student Status
Graduate Student
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Oral Presentation
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English
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College of Arts and Sciences
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Arts and Humanities (Govt)