Conspiratio maligna w naczyniu, czyli globalne teorie spiskowe a sceptycyzm

Abstract

The paper presents a comparison of a particular type of conspiracy theory, the socalled global malevolent conspiracy theory, with Hilary Putnam’s famous thought experiment concerning brains in a vat. The belief in a malevolent conspiracy places one in a position similar to a person pondering whether she is a brain in a vat. This problem results from conspiratio maligna’s unrestricted ability to influence, control, or even create every aspect of our social, political, and economic life. The unlimited power of such a mysterious organization is the reason why its victims cannot trust anyone, including their government, scientists, or even other conspiracy theorists. Every man, woman, and institution is suspected of being bribed, controlled, or intimidated by conspiracy. There is only one possible solution to this situation, and it is to remain skeptical about everything. Unfortunately, this leads to absurd consequences, as the thesis about conspiratio maligna itself is unspeakable.