What are the strategic considerations behind the active spread of anti-vax theories?
What are the strategic considerations behind the active spread of anti-vax theories?
When it comes to spreading disinformation about climate change or the risks of smoking, I can clearly see how it protects economic interests (e.g. the value of the assets of the fossil fuel industry or the tobacco industry). I therefore understand that these lies are (have been) regularly pushed by people who do not necessarily believe in them.
But what are the strategic considerations behind the active spread of anti-vax theories? Who gains from this? Is it just an effective topic to rile up a political base? Because it hits people right in the feels? Is it just a way to bring people together on one topic, in order to use that political base for other purposes?
Or is anti-vax disinformation really only pushed by people who believe it?
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In my personal opinion, which may be controversial, I want to highlight a trend I observed when I moved to Europe as a child. At that time, I noticed that there were predominantly left-leaning communities that promoted anti-vaccine sentiments, even to the extent of including such ideas in school books.
Moving on to the present, many left-leaning ideologies seem to harbor a strong opposition towards America and capitalism in general. While this might be considered my "conspiracy" theory, it is worth noting that prior to the Ukraine war, several left-leaning political parties appeared to be quite open to engaging in business with Russia. It is a well-known fact that Russia has been operating troll farms for a significant period of time, manipulating public opinion with half-truths, fake news, and employing tactics like #whataboutism.
For instance, Germany phased out its nuclear plants, a decision that, in my opinion, increased its dependence on Russia for energy. While the green movement is undoubtedly important, it is worth questioning the role of gas in achieving environmental goals.
Now, let's consider who would benefit from a divided West, both internationally and within nations. Every year, we witness a growing political and societal divide. It is essential to be aware of the forces that seek to exploit these divisions.
Edit: The right and left have flip flopped in many areas in this regards in my opinion and my theory is Russia used to to their advantage.