What Is The General Consensus On Conspiracy Theories?

Conspiracy theories have been a constant occurrence for at least the past 100 years, according to Prof Joe Uscinski, author of American Conspiracy. Karen Douglas, PhD, a professor of social psychology at the University of Kent, discusses the widespread belief in conspiracy theories and their link to various bizarre events and phenomena. A national survey of 2021 U.S. adults was used to examine 15 psychological and political characteristics and beliefs in 39 different conspiracy theories. Douglas discusses psychological research on how conspiracy theories start, why they persist, who is most likely to believe them, and whether there is any way to combat them.

Conspirational beliefs are associated with citizens’ decisions about vaccinations, political parties, and mass shootings. Recent events like the election of Donald Trump, the U.S. Capitol riot, and conspiracy theory-inspired mass shootings have prompted concerns about trusting health and science information. Conspiracy theories can be dangerous and can be identified, debunked, and countered.

Recent events such as the election of Donald Trump, the U.S. Capitol riot, and several conspiracy theory-inspired mass shootings have prompted questions about who to trust when it comes to health and science information. Research has shown that most Americans believe in conspiracy theories, including the dead internet conspiracy theory, 9/11 Conspiracies, Princess Diana’s murder, subliminal advertising, the Moon landing hoax, and Paul McCartney’s death.

A conspiracy theory is an explanation for an event or situation asserting the existence of a conspiracy by powerful and sinister groups, often political. Douglas discusses psychological research on how conspiracy theories start, persist, and who is most likely to believe them.