A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Conspiracism on the Runet: Text Reuse and the Formation of a Conspiracy Theory




AuthorsOivo, Teemu; Oiva, Mila; Ristilä, Anna

Publication year2026

Journal: Canadian Journal of European and Russian Studies

Volume19

Issue1

First page 1

Last page25

eISSN2562-8429

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.22215/cjers.v19i1.4960

Publication's open availability at the time of reportingOpen Access

Publication channel's open availability Open Access publication channel

Web address https://doi.org/10.22215/cjers.v19i1.4960

Self-archived copy's licenceCC BY NC ND

Self-archived copy's versionPublisher`s PDF


Abstract

While repetition is widely recognized as a key mechanism in shaping cultural knowledge, its role in the formation of misinformation and conspiracy theories remains underexplored. This article examines Russian conspiracism by investigating the role of text reuse in the formation and dissemination of a conspiracy theory within text-based media. Drawing on a corpus of Russian-language websites and newspapers, we identify a prominent cluster that repeatedly promotes claims about an ancient Russian civilization and a multi-generational cover-up. Using a mixed-methods approach, we contextualize these websites and analyze their life cycles, loose interconnectedness, and “patriotic” profiles. The conspiracy theory examined in this case study circulated exclusively online, with the digital environment of the Runet accelerating its diffusion and entrenchment. Our findings of text reuse highlight the salience of lead-in introductions in shaping and reinforcing these narratives.


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Last updated on 23/04/2026 10:05:41 AM