truthers

A truther is a term used to describe individuals who believe that certain widely accepted accounts of events, often involving government or public figures, are false or misleading. These individuals typically investigate and promote alternative explanations for these events, often referred to as "truth movements."

The origins of the term can be traced back to the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks. Many who questioned the official narrative surrounding the events of that day began to identify themselves as "9/11 truthers." This movement proposed that the attacks were not solely carried out by al-Qaeda but involved complicity or direct action by elements within the U.S. government.

Since then, the concept of "truthers" has expanded to encompass a wide range of conspiracy theories. These can include beliefs about staged historical events, hidden agendas of powerful organizations, or suppressed scientific or medical information. Truthers often rely on independent research, online communities, and alternative media sources to disseminate their views.

Critics of truth movements often point to a lack of credible evidence, reliance on speculation, and the potential for misinformation to spread. They argue that these beliefs can undermine trust in established institutions and scientific consensus. Truthers, conversely, maintain that their skepticism is a necessary response to perceived deception and that they are seeking genuine understanding. The term itself can sometimes be used pejoratively to dismiss dissenting viewpoints.