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‘Wat is die waarheid’: Conspiracy theories under investigation
Rian van Heerden takes the bull by the horns in a brand-new series in which he interviews experts on current (and historic) conspiracy theories.
Investigating conspiracy theories in ‘Wat is die waarheid’. Picture: Supplied
Conspiracy theories have always been a hot topic, even more so amidst pandemics like the one we’re currently facing. kykNET’s series, Wat is die waarheid, which will air from 21 October, will keep you at the edge of your seat, investigating numerous conspiracies and thorny issues like the Covid-19 pandemic, viewed from a South African perspective.
Hosted by Rian van Heerden, Wat is die waarheid will feature several historical conspiracies like the legendary Kruger millions, Cecil John Rhodes’ secret organisation that eyed global control and even theories about certain Anglo Boer War happenings and events. The series will also look into organisations like the Free Masons and the Illuminati.
As the Covid-19 pandemic comes with its own set of conspiracy theories, it is only natural for Van Heerden – who is also a radio host on Jacaranda FM’s Drive Time and a kykNET presenter – to encourage debate about these topics too.
According to him, it is because of the debates and disinformation around Covid-19 that conspiracy theories have been thriving for the past year and a half.
He says: “Lately there are more conspiracy theories than ever before in history, while some of the oldest (like the Illuminati) are popping up again. This makes it necessary to find out what is the truth and what isn’t.”
The fact that social media contributes to rise of fake news, making it difficult to distinguish between what it the truth and what is not, undoubtedly pours fuel on the fire.
Conspiracy theories are flourishing because people have very easy access to all kinds of content and Van Heerden says it presents a problem as it becomes a breeding ground for untruths.
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The Wat is die waarheid host says: “One of the reasons people are fascinated with conspiracies is that a person often tries to get an explanation for something that they don’t fully understand.”
The problem comes in where people believe that everyone is equal in their opinions.
“Why then rely on a scientist of experts if you can find the information online?” Van Heerden asks.
Wat is die waarheid promises to bring some answers to your questions about various conspiracy topics that have been debated lately.
It will start airing on 21 October at 8pm on kykNET (DStv channel 144).
