How Election Conspiracy Theories Impact Voter Behaviors in the New York City Metropolitan Area
Zoe Hussain
Project Description
My project is a detailed research analysis of the origins of election fraud conspiracy theories in the 2020 presidential election and how they spread on social media. I specifically focused on the New York City Metropolitan Area, and how election fraud conspiracies impacted interactions between poll site interpretation workers and voters.
What Form will your Final Project Take?
research paper
Who was supporting you in your work?
Lizabeth Dijkstra. My research mentor assisted me in workshopping a research proposal in the fall and building my methodology for enacting the proposal. She helped me edit my work and get through the entire research process, which was new to me.
Project Themes:
Research
How has this project has been impactful or transformative?
This project pushed my boundaries as a writer and thinker as well as made me grapple with a lot of hard realities about our current political and social culture. It motivated me to not be afraid to address bigger issues like conspiracy theories and groups in my reporting. The urgency of my topic, given the upcoming presidential cycle, made this project feel even more demanding and important to finish successfully.
What would you do differently?
I would advise students to not be afraid to have big ideas, as you can always refine them. Beyond that, the research process can involve a rabbit hole of really interesting information. Sometimes this helps inspire new modes of thinking, but sometimes it derails you. Try to always remind yourself of your "why" for doing your research project. Why is this topic important? Who am I helping by doing this research?
Short summary of your experience:
I'm overall glad I decided to do the social science fellowship, although there were a few bumps in my personal planning and time management along the way. It was a constructive experience that gave me real, professional experience.