The Motivations for conspiracy theories

Abstract

What is involved in embracing a conspiracy theory? Why do the conspiracy theorists, regardless of their education level and profession, try to defend their theory and spread it, despite blatant contradictions that are sometimes highly imaginative? According to the authors, the only way to give a complete answer to understanding the conspiracy phenomenon - a social phenomenon that has become alarming with serious psychological, cultural and political implications - is to be able to understand the reasons for its appeal. The authors illustrate a possible 'perfect recipe' for the conspiracy mindset to be triggered and self-fulfilling. The review of the most recent literature shows that feelings of existential insecurity and generalized anxiety can be indicated as the first ingredient in the recipe; they would also be capable of distorting the mechanisms of reasoning and information acquisition. Peculiar traits and narcissistic defenses combined with a condition of isolation and social frustration are the compounds of the second ingredient. The latter traits flesh out those paranoid-like ideations that strike so much media attention. The third ingredient is the need for integration (and social recognition), an irrepressible motivational drive, the authentic glue of conspiracy networks.

doi: 10.53240/2023topic2001.06