What Makes Christians Believe In Conspiracies?

Conspiracy theories, whether Christian or otherwise, are a common phenomenon that affects individuals who believe in supernatural or paranormal beliefs. Christians, particularly white evangelicals, are particularly susceptible to believing these theories due to their religious devoutness. Recent research suggests that Christians are especially susceptible to conspiracy thinking in the United States, but the role of this is yet to be ascertained.

The spread of conspiracy theories has been influenced by various factors, including Christian nationalism and biblical literalism. The belief in conspiracies tends to spike during times of crisis, such as terrorist attacks. This belief can be illuminated through the lens of Christian psychology, which suggests that at the core of the anxiety lies the belief in conspiracy theories.

The rise of conspiracy theorists like QAnon, which claims that Donald Trump is a conspiracy, is rooted in the belief that God rescued them from a conspiracy theory and terrorism. The author suggests that understanding the role of religion, spirituality, and post-critical beliefs in susceptibility to conspiracy theories can help address these issues.

A disturbing number of professing Christians are entranced by macabre conspiracy theories, anti-vaccination hysteria, and unverifiable claims of stolen elections. By addressing these concerns, we can help those who find themselves gripped by these ideologies and help them navigate the complex world of conspiracy theories.