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Misinformation March

April 2025: Birds Aren't Real

Birds Aren't Real

April 2025 Discussion Questions : Birds Aren't Real

  1. How does the “Birds Aren’t Real” movement exemplify how conspiracy theories spread today?

  1. What is the function of satire in this book?  Do you think that satire can be used as an effective tool against misinformation, or is there too much risk of reinforcing it?

  1. Why do you think some people choose to believe in conspiracy theories, even when presented with overwhelming factual evidence that it is wrong?

  1. How does the book critique social media in spreading misinformation? Can it be used to combat it? What are some examples of this?

  1. Does confirmation bias play a role in the fictional movement and real-world misinformation?

  1. What emotional or psychological needs might conspiracy theories pray on in believers? How does the book parody these?

  1. Can belief in misinformation ever be considered harmless rather than dangerous and harmful? If so, when?

  1. How is humor used as a form of resistance or social commentary in the book?

  1. During reading, did you find yourself questioning what was real and fake? What do you think           that says about the power of presentation to persuade, and, more broadly, about storytelling, or group belief?

  1. Has reading this book changed your point of view on how conspiracy theories are formed and spread? If yes, how?
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