How Did The Popularity Of Conspiracy Theories Develop?

Conspiracy theories have been a constant occurrence in American society for at least the past 100 years, with various explanations for various events and situations. These theories can range from alien rulers to shark attacks instigated by spies to elaborate multi-billion-dollar hoaxes. The widespread belief in conspiracy theories has become a topic of interest for sociologists, psychologists, and folklore experts since the 1960s.

Psychological research on conspiracy theories has focused on how they start, why they persist, who is most likely to believe them, and whether there is any way to address them. For example, the siege of the Branch Davidian compound in Waco, Texas, and the bombing of the Alfred P. Church in Waco, Texas, have been cited as examples. Recent events like the election of Donald Trump, the U.S. Capitol riot, and several conspiracy theory-inspired mass shootings have prompted further exploration of conspiracy theories.

The underlying theory for all conspiracy theories is identical, with the medieval period being the perfect breeding ground for these theories. People can be prone to believing in conspiracy theories due to a combination of personality traits and motivations, including relying strongly on their beliefs. A conspiracy theory is an explanation for an event or situation that asserts the existence of a conspiracy by powerful and sinister groups, often political.

How conspiracies spread and why do we believe them is a topic of interest for researchers and scholars alike. Understanding the reasons behind conspiracy theories and their impact on our understanding of the world around us is crucial for addressing the ongoing debate surrounding their existence and potential solutions.