“Wake up, Sheeple!”: Conspiracy theories and Māori during COVID-19

Abstract

This situation report outlines some of the literature about conspiracy theories and its application to Mäori during the COVID-19 pandemic. This report shows that while there are some psychological factors at play with regard to vulnerability to conspiracy theories, it appears that issues around power and powerlessness are most applicable to Mäori, given our historical and political context. The report also advocates for a manaakitanga-informed approach to dealing with whänau who are disseminating conspiracy theories. A manaakitanga-informed approach is about continuing to treat whänau and friends with respect and supporting and nurturing relationships