Page 47 - Issue 62

Ramadan Vol.1 Issue 62 December 2023 ELITE

Kareem

Psychology of Conspiracy Theories: Why Do We Believe

Them?

Salma Ahmed- second level- political science

Conspiracy theories are Furthermore, humans are social creatures,
everywhere, from comment and conspiracy theories gives some people a

sections on Facebook and dubious sense of belonging because believing in

websites to subjects of debate in something others don't creates a sense of
Talk shows. From aliens building shared knowledge and make us feel like we

the pyramids to the moon landing have our own community – "we're the only
being a hoax, these outlandish ones who know the truth!"- This feeling of

explanations for events can be belonging can be appealing to those who
strangely captivating. But why do feel isolated or distrustful of authority

some people find solace in these figures.

elaborate narratives? There are
many factors we’re going to discuss

in this article.

One key factor is humans inherent
desire to make sense of the world.

When we face - relatively- complex
events, like a political scandal or a

natural disaster, conspiracy
theories offer a clear explanation,

even if it's fantastical. It's gives us There’s also cognitive biases, meaning we
sometimes seek out information that
an illusion of control in a world
47 that often feels unpredictable. confirms our existing beliefs, while ignoring
evidence to the contrary. This creates an

environment where conspiracy theories
flourish.