The Psychology of Conspiracy Theorists

The term "conspiracy theory" is becoming alarmingly prevalent in our current media landscape. But what does that actually mean? What are conspiracy theories and how do they burrow their way into our society and influence so many people, potentially even changing their fundamental beliefs and world views? These are the questions The Psychology of Conspiracy Theorists seeks to explore. In order to situate our reader, this discussion begins with the impact of conspiracy theories in our modern world and an in-depth breakdown of the definition and categorization of conspiracy theories. The following chapters will discuss the sweeping consequences of misinformation and two potential reasons why people believe in these theories despite the lack of scientific evidence to support them, specifically the existential and social motives behind their beliefs. This examination would be incomplete without exploring the origins and impacts of specific theories throughout recent history, including those surrounding the moon landing, 9/11, and even the now infamous virus COVID-19. The Psychology of Conspiracy Theorists strives to educate the general reader on the origins and the wide-reaching impacts of conspiracy theories as well as the psychology behind why people believe the unbelievable.