How To Cease Believing Conspiracies?

A new review reveals that only certain methods to counteract conspiracy beliefs are effective. False conspiracy theories, such as the pandemic being a hoax or a secret bioweapon, continue to spread on social media. To discourage these theories, it is essential to encourage critical thinking and ask open-ended questions. Experts and r/ChangeMyView subreddit moderators offer 10 tips to debunk conspiracy theories convincingly.

There are two options: a simplistic “conspiracy theory” involving Bill Gates and vaccines with tracking devices, or a more complex scientific explanation. To talk to someone who believes in conspiracy theories, be open-minded and ask questions and listen carefully. This builds understanding with the person and avoids defending one’s own beliefs.

Conspiration theories that flourished during the COVID-19 pandemic can be dangerous and difficult to remove from one’s heart. Humans are inherently stubborn, and it is difficult to remove the belief from their hearts. As the pandemic has taken hold, so have misinformation spreaders. Five ways to spot holes in their logic are provided.

Authorities can reduce conspiracy beliefs among the public by installing procedural justice principles in decision-making processes. People’s first instinct when engaging with conspiracy believers is often to try and debunk their ideas with factual and authoritative evidence.