Alex Shermon (Class of 2015)

My work examines the dynamics of contemporary conspiracy theories in Australia. Conspiracy theories have been a hot topic in academic research since the 1960s, but there has been a minimal amount of research done in the Australian context, instead focusing on Europe and the United States. My research looks at online conspiracy communities, as well as conspiratorial media sources, and aims to assess what types of conspiracy theories are present in Australian public life, where they are coming from, and how they are communicated. My research helps bring a national understanding to an urgent research priority and hopes to establish a broader research program into Australian conspiracy theories as an outcome. This is the first exploratory step in understanding a complex and deeply important phenomenon for our modern lives. 

About the Foundation Scholarship

The Mentone Grammar Foundation provides the opportunity for Mentonians to apply for a grant of up to $15,000 to assist with the pursuit of Doctoral studies. The Mentonians Association and broader Mentone Grammar Community proudly supports our students to continue to ‘dream big’, long after they leave school.