The Science Of Conspiracy Theories

A Narrative Review

Conspiracy theories are rampant but historically are nothing new. A conspiracy theory refers to explanatory beliefs of how multiple actors meet in secret agreement in order to achieve a hidden goal that is widely considered to be unlawful or malevolent.

While some conspiracies are true, majority are false. Overall the prevalence of conspiracy theories is the same across time. Not to mention conspiracies aren’t an inherent western phenomenon either. Other cultures in other time periods exhibit some familiar conspiracy theories.

What is most likely the case is conspiracy theories are a HUMAN phenomenon used to fulfill psychological needs during times of stress, crisis, and uncertainty. The COVID-19 pandemic describes such a time, with the advent of new conspiracies related to masking, the nature/origin of SARS-CoV-2 (coronavirus), the vaccine, and more.

It is imperative we understand the research related to conspiracy theories in order not to fall for them and to help those who do.