Is The Coronavirus Part Of A Conspiracy?

Online speculation about the origins of COVID-19 is escalating, with a new report from the Energy Department concluding that the coronavirus responsible for the disease leaked from a China lab. However, on 28 February 2023, the controversial claim that the pandemic might have leaked from a Chinese laboratory was once dismissed by many as a fringe. As conspiracy theories about COVID-19 take root in the United States, understanding the psychological foundations of conspiracy beliefs is increasingly critical.

Beliefs in two viral conspiracy theories are increasingly coming together, with fear and wealth playing a significant role. The coronavirus pandemic has been a breeding ground for these theories, with fear and wealth being the most common ingredients. In the early pandemic, conspiracy theories that were shared the most on Twitter highlighted malicious purposes and secretive actions of the virus.

As the COVID-19 crisis worsens, the world also faces a global misinformation pandemic. Conspiracy theories that behave like viruses themselves are spreading, with some believing that COVID-19 was a hoax or exaggerated by left-wingers as part of a plot to derail Donald Trump’s reelection. Research has shown that psychotic experiences are also a risk factor for several psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and post-pandemic depression.

In conclusion, conspiracy beliefs about COVID-19 are becoming more prevalent, with fear and wealth playing a significant role in shaping health behavior and the spread of false information. Understanding the psychological foundations of conspiracy beliefs is crucial as they continue to shape our understanding of the pandemic and its impact on individuals and society.