Douglas, Karen (2021) COVID-19 conspiracy theories. Group Processes and Intergroup Relations, 24 (2). pp. 270-275. ISSN 1368-4302. (doi:10.1177/1368430220982068) (KAR id:84470)
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Official URL: https://doi.org/10.1177/1368430220982068 |
Abstract
Conspiracy theories started to appear on social media immediately after the first news about COVID-19. Is the virus a hoax? Is it a bioweapon designed in a Chinese laboratory? These conspiracy theories typically have an intergroup flavour, blaming one group for having some involvement in either manufacturing the virus or controlling public opinion about it. In this article, I will discuss why people are attracted to conspiracy theories in general, and why conspiracy theories seem have flourished during the pandemic. I will discuss what the consequences of these conspiracy theories are for individuals, groups and societies. I will then discuss some potential strategies for addressing the negative consequences of conspiracy theories. Finally, I will consider some open questions for research regarding COVID-19 conspiracy theories, in particular focusing on the potential impact of these conspiracy theories for group processes and intergroup relations.
Item Type: | Article |
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DOI/Identification number: | 10.1177/1368430220982068 |
Uncontrolled keywords: | COVID-19, Conspiracy theories, Conspiracy beliefs, Misinformation, Disinformation |
Subjects: | B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology |
Divisions: | Divisions > Division of Human and Social Sciences > School of Psychology |
Depositing User: | Karen Douglas |
Date Deposited: | 26 Nov 2020 11:09 UTC |
Last Modified: | 08 Jan 2024 11:35 UTC |
Resource URI: | https://kar.kent.ac.uk/id/eprint/84470 (The current URI for this page, for reference purposes) |
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