Why Do Conspiracies Get Made?

Conspiracy theories have been a constant occurrence for at least the past 100 years, driven by three main factors: the desire for understanding and certainty, the desire for control, and the desire for a sense of control. The unexplained suicide of Jeffrey Epstein has led to the rise of conspiracy theories, which attempt to explain harmful or tragic events as the result of the actions of a small powerful group.

The widespread belief in conspiracy theories is cause for concern, as research links support to these theories. A study aimed to examine these factors together to arrive at a more unified account of why people believe in conspiracy theories. Conspiracy theories are a fundamental component of radicalized and extremist groups, where they may play an important role in reinforcing their ideology.

Psychological research on conspiracy theories starts, why they persist, who is most likely to believe them, and whether there is any way to counter them. People can be prone to believing in conspiracy theories due to a combination of personality traits and motivations, including relying heavily on their intuition.

Conspiration theories that flourished during the COVID-19 pandemic can be dangerous and require a similar approach to dealing with psychotic disorders. Further research is needed to determine for whom and under what conditions conspiracy theories may satisfy key psychological motives.

In conclusion, conspiracy theories are appealing and persistent due to three primary psychological needs: understanding, control, and control. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing effective strategies to combat conspiracy theories and maintain a healthy social environment.