Studies show that the majority of people believe in at least one conspiracy theory. They’re becoming increasingly pervasive in our everyday lives, with it not being uncommon to hear conspiracy theories coming from commanders-in-chief. Why would someone believe something that others perceive as crazy?
People believe conspiracy theories because they’re true
The reason that people subscribe to conspiracy theories is simple: because they’re true.
Conspiracy theories often turn out to be true
Watergate, MK Ultra… plenty of things have been considered conspiracy theories in their time but have later turned out to be true.
People believe in conspiracy theories for psychological reasons
A large body of scientific evidence suggest conspiracy believers are often psychologically unbalanced.
There are Epistemic motives for believing in conspiracy theories
There is evidence that conspiracy theories appear to appeal to individuals who seek accuracy and/or meaning, but perhaps lack the cognitive tools or experience problems that prevent them from being able to find accuracy and meaning via other more rational means.
There are Existential motives for believing in conspiracy theories
People turn to Conspiracy Theories when they're anxious and feel powerless. Research suggests conspiracy belief is strongly related to lack of sociopolitical control or lack of psychological empowerment.
