ABSTRACT
The conclusion considers why existing strategies for combatting Covid-19 conspiracy theories might not work. It argues that conspiracy theories are a sui generis category of mis- and disinformation and, as such, need to be treated differently. It evaluates fact-checking, deplatforming and digital literacy before pointing towards ten factors that need to be taken into account when devising an intervention. These factors include understanding what conspiracism might offer to some people; taking into account the political, technological and historical contexts in which conspiracy theories arise and transform; and getting to grips with the aesthetic features of conspiracism understood as a dynamic and adaptive discourse. The conclusion ends by questioning the efficacy of any quick technological fix and emphasises that structural changes are needed, in terms of both technological infrastructure and socio-political organisation.
