Dr. Elise Wang Delivers Insightful Lecture on Conspiracy Stories and Race for PSIR Students

On Monday, November 10, 2025, Assistant Professor Dr. Elise Wang of the University of California, Fullerton, delivered a remote guest lecture titled “The Conspiracy Story and Race” for Prof. Dr. Joseph J. Kaminski’s IR477 – Conspiracy Theories in International Relations course at the IUS Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) study program.

Professor Wang’s lecture explored the historical development of conspiracy thinking, with a particular focus on how narratives of hidden power and suspicion have intersected with concepts of race across various time periods. Through literary, historical, and cultural perspectives, she demonstrated how conspiracy stories have shaped public imagination and contributed to the marginalization of certain groups.

Students described the session as highly engaging, insightful, and intellectually stimulating. Professor Wang’s clear explanations and thought-provoking examples deepened their understanding of the complex relationship between conspiracy narratives and political life.

Her visit offered a valuable opportunity for students to engage with cutting-edge scholarship and reflect on the broader relevance of conspiracy thinking in contemporary international relations.