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The psychology of conspiracy theories

Douglas, Karen, Sutton, Robbie M., Cichocka, Aleksandra (2017) The psychology of conspiracy theories. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 26 (6). pp. 538-542. ISSN 0963-7214. E-ISSN 1467-8721. (doi:10.1177/0963721417718261) (KAR id:61995)

Abstract

What psychological factors drive the popularity of conspiracy theories that explain important events as secret plots by powerful and malevolent groups? What are the psychological consequences of adopting these theories? We review the current research, and find that it answers the first of these questions more thoroughly than the second. Belief in conspiracy theories appears to be driven by motives that can be characterized as epistemic (understanding one’s environment), existential (being safe and in control of one’s environment) and social (maintaining a positive image of the self and the social group). However, little research has investigated the consequences of conspiracy belief, and to date, this research does not indicate that conspiracy belief fulfills people’s motivations. Instead, for many people conspiracy belief may be more appealing than satisfying. Further research is needed to determine for whom, and under what conditions, conspiracy theories may satisfy key psychological motives.

Item Type: Article
DOI/Identification number: 10.1177/0963721417718261
Uncontrolled keywords: Conspiracy theories; Conspiracy belief; Motives; Needs
Subjects: H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare
Divisions: Divisions > Division of Human and Social Sciences > School of Psychology
Funders: Economic and Social Research Council (https://ror.org/03n0ht308)
Depositing User: Karen Douglas
Date Deposited: 08 Jun 2017 11:31 UTC
Last Modified: 04 Mar 2024 19:22 UTC
Resource URI: https://kar.kent.ac.uk/id/eprint/61995 (The current URI for this page, for reference purposes)

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