The Psychology of Conspiracy Theories

TLDR

Conspiracy theories are driven by psychological factors that frame events as secret plots by powerful groups, and their adoption raises questions about psychological consequences. The study calls for further research to identify who and under what conditions conspiracy theories satisfy key psychological motives. The review finds that conspiracy belief is driven by epistemic, existential, and social motives, but research on its psychological consequences is limited and suggests that belief often fails to satisfy these motives.

Abstract

What psychological factors drive the popularity of conspiracy theories, which 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.