Why Do Conspiracists Have Such Vivid Delusions?

Conspiracy theories are not delusions, but they can cause psychological distress. The phrase “not mentally ill, but not mentally healthy” often applies to those who believe in conspiracy theories. Mistrust and vulnerability to misinformation lie at the root of conspiracy theory beliefs. Even seemingly eccentric conspiracy theories, such as the notion that the government is intentionally putting chemicals into the environment, can cause distress.

Psychological data supports the claim that people who harbor conspiracist thoughts are also associated with negative self-esteem and insecure attachment. The advent of the pandemic and its injection into partisan politics in the United States and abroad has led to an urgency to a deeper understanding of conspiracy theories. Conspiratorial thinking meets epistemic, existential, and social needs, providing clarity in uncertain times and connection with an in-group of like-minded individuals.

Conspiration theories have been a constant hum in the background for at least the past 100 years, according to Prof. Joe Uscinski, author of American Conspiracy. Delusions, common symptoms in schizophrenia, dementia, amnesia, and delusional disorders, can also be experienced as part of depression.

Two psychiatrists offer advice on distinguishing between belief in conspiracies and outright delusions. They suggest that conspiracy beliefs are like delusional beliefs in the ways in which they are formed and maintained, implying that a cognitive dysfunction may be involved.

In conclusion, conspiracy theories are not delusions but can cause psychological distress. Mistrust and vulnerability to misinformation are at the root of conspiracy theories, and understanding their psychological mechanisms is crucial for combating these beliefs.