The term conspiracy theory often stigmatizes legitimate doubt. Discover why real skepticism is not radicalism but an expression of mature thinking.

By Alexander Renz • Last Update: June 2025

1. The Filter Mechanisms: How ChatGPT Decides What’s “Safe”

ChatGPT uses a multi-layered filtering system to moderate content:

a) Pre-built Blacklists

• Blocked terms: Words like “bomb,” “hacking,” or certain political keywords immediately trigger filters.
• Domain blocks: Links to sites classified as “unreliable” (e.g., some alternative media) are removed.

b) Context Analysis

• Sentiment detection: Negative tones like “scandal” or “cover-up” increase filtering probability.
• Conspiracy markers: Phrases like “Person X intentionally deceived Group Y” are often filtered out.

c) User Feedback Loop

Data practices, platform strategies, ideological biases, decentralized models, and network analysis in the global AI ecosystem

Opinion Replaces Thinking – A Societal Symptom

We live in a world where information is omnipresent – and yet, thinking seems increasingly rare. For decades, we’ve been offered a reality based less on independent reflection and more on constant overstimulation. So who is still surprised when people consume more than they question?

A widespread practice is the uncritical adoption of opinions. Thinking is outsourced – to influencers, algorithms, group identities. The individual intellect retreats behind the comfort of belonging. The ability to verify and evaluate is not lost – it is simply no longer demanded.

Documented examples from the COVID-19 pandemic, climate crisis, and Middle East conflict — how media shape reality through omission and distortion.