Top contributors in r/conspiracy: an analysis of cross-subreddit network dynamicsErends, Renée (Avtor) Mrvar, Andrej (Mentor) conspiracy theoriesRedditr/ConspiracySocial network analysisThe spread of conspiracy theories has led to reduced political and societal engagement, the proliferation of hate speech, and various acts of violence. Reddit’s largest conspiracy related subreddit, r/conspiracy, plays a key role in the formation and propagation of conspiracy theories, while fostering extreme political views and toxic behaviors among its users. Only a small fraction of its large membership is responsible for most of the subreddit’s content and has a disproportionate influence on its user discourse. By using social network analysis, this study has explored the activity levels, patterns, and connections of r/conspiracy’s top contributors across Reddit. Findings reveal that they are densely interconnected and are, besides r/conspiracy, most active in subreddits centered on politics and world events, rather than specific conspiracy theory related subreddits. Their other interests on Reddit are diverse but suggest a reciprocal relationship between fringe conspiratorial discussion and the mainstream media. This study provides actionable insights to strengthen intervention strategies and emphasizes the importance of targeted individual intervention and the role of volunteer moderators in mitigating the harmful conspiratorial content on Reddit and beyond.R. Erends20252025-03-11 12:08:12Magistrsko delo/naloga167769UDK: 077.5:303.7(043.2)VisID: 174756COBISS_ID: 226157827sl