Why Do People Accept Conspiracy Theories?

Conspiracy theories can be categorized into three main reasons: the desire for understanding and certainty, the desire for security and belonging, and the desire for a sense of conspiracy. A recent NPR/Ipsos poll revealed that many Americans believe in politically focused conspiracy theories, which can be driven by personality traits and motivations such as relying on intuition and feeling a sense of a conspiracy.

Believing in conspiracy theories can erode trust in government, leaders, institutions, and science and research itself. New research suggests that events happening worldwide are nurturing underlying emotions that make people more willing to believe in conspiracies. Psychological research shows that humans’ tendency to perceive patterns and embrace information that meets their needs for security and belonging is a driving force behind conspiracy theories. “Confirmation bias” is the most pervasive cognitive bias and a powerful driver of belief in conspiracies.

Karen Douglas, PhD, of the University of Kent, discusses psychological research on how conspiracy theories start, why they persist, who is most likely to believe them, and whether the approach to patients with conspiracy beliefs should be similar to dealing with psychotic disorders. Conspiracy theories are everywhere, and those most likely to embrace conspiracy thinking are less inquisitive and often exhibit narcissistic tendencies.

In conclusion, conspiracy theories are prevalent, with fears about vaccines containing microchips and election rigging being common. While some may not believe in these theories, they can still lead to negative consequences for individuals and their social environment.