Rachel Peterson is a fourth–year transfer student majoring in Sociology and minoring in Community Engagement and Social Change. Through the Sociology Department’s Honors Program, Rachel is conducting independent research over the course of a year. Her project investigates how evangelical Christian networks influence the spread of conspiracy theories through interpersonal connections. Since new ideas are more likely adopted through trusted individuals, church networks might be conducive to the spread of conspiracies. The institution of religion can create tight–knit networks of trusted people through church attendance, shared doctrine, involvement in outreach, and participation in small groups. By conducting ethnographic fieldwork in a small evangelical church, Rachel hopes to determine potential belief compatibility between religious ideology and conspiracies. Through interviews with church members, she can analyze how conspiracies might spread through the church networks.
In addition to her research, Rachel is a Regents Scholar and a Development Intern at Safe Place for Youth. This local non–profit works to empower homeless youth throughout Los Angeles by proving them with various housing, health, employment, and education services. Rachel works to support the youth through fundraising, event planning, and volunteer coordination. After graduation, Rachel plans to work in the non–profit sector before pursuing a graduate degree in social work.
