Why Certain Individuals Are Open To Accepting Conspiracy Theories?

Conspiracy theories are a pervasive phenomenon that have been around for at least the past 100 years, with theories such as vaccines containing microchips and election rigging being prevalent. The psychology behind conspiracy theories offers explanations for why some people are more likely to believe them, even those that feel taken out of a movie. Karen Douglas, PhD, of the University of Kent in the United Kingdom, discusses psychological research on how conspiracy theories start, why they persist, who is most likely to believe them, and whether personality traits of conspiracy theorists are affected.

Confirmation bias, the most pervasive cognitive bias, is a powerful driver of belief in conspiracies. People tend to give more weight to evidence that supports their beliefs, which can have real behavioral effects. The approach to patients with conspiracy beliefs should be similar to dealing with psychotic disorders.

Conspiration theory experts have found that people are not necessarily vulnerable to conspiratorial thinking. Pre-pandemic, the question was “how do I know whom to trust when it comes to health and science information?” Even when there is substantial evidence to the contrary, the allure of conspiracy theories may be too powerful for some to resist. Christopher French, a professor of psychology at Goldsmiths, University of London, explains that although conspiracy beliefs can occasionally be untrue, they can still be powerful enough for some to resist.

In conclusion, conspiracy theories are a complex phenomenon that can be driven by various personality traits and motivations. Understanding the psychology behind conspiracy theories can help us better understand and combat these harmful beliefs.