What Shakespeare teaches us about modern conspiracy theories | Dr. Paul Budra | TEDxSurreySalon

Dr. Paul Budra reflects on the prevalence of conspiracy theories surrounding Shakespeare's authorship and draws parallels to broader societal trends. He emphasizes how conspiracy theories often stem from a failure of imagination, where individuals struggle to conceive realities beyond their immediate perceptions or biases. Using examples ranging from flat earth theories to political disputes, he highlights the importance of empathy and social imagination in understanding differing perspectives. Ultimately, he advocates for literature and art as tools for cultivating empathy and combating the divisive effects of conspiracy thinking, urging viewers to embrace a more empathetic approach to understanding others.

Dr. Paul Budra is a Professor of English at Simon Fraser University. He has published seven books and numerous articles on Shakespeare, early modern literature, and contemporary popular culture. He is a past president of the Pacific Northwest Renaissance Society, former Chair of the English Department, former Associate Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, and winner of the SFU Excellence in Teaching Award for 2004. Every summer he lectures on Shakespeare at the Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival in Vancouver, BC.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx