From: Radio New Zealand
How Feelings of Disconnection and Lack of Control Fuel Conspiracy Beliefs
Analysis – Conspiracy theories have always been a part of society, offering explanations – sometimes simple, often elaborate – for complex events.
Some have uncovered genuine conspiracies, such as the Watergate scandal. Most lack substance but are nevertheless widely believed. For instance, the idea that the moon landing was staged has persisted for decades despite substantial evidence to the contrary.
What drives people to adopt these beliefs? Researchers have been investigating the underlying mechanisms that foster conspiracy beliefs and our new study adds another piece to this puzzle.
Using data from more than 55,000 people who participated in the longitudinal New Zealand attitudes and values study, we found certain core psychological needs attract people to conspiracy theories. When these needs go unmet over long periods of time, people are more likely to turn to conspiracy beliefs, possibly as a way to fulfil these needs.
Read the whole story (subscription may be required): Radio New Zealand
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Comments
While results seem to be common sensical, they do not appear to be particularly scientific – refereed/published in scientific journals.
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