Conspiracy theory

What Exactly Is a Conspiracy Theory?

A conspiracy theory is an explanation for an event or situation that asserts the existence of a secret plot by powerful groups with sinister motives.

The History and Usage of ‘Conspiracy Theory’

The term has been used to discredit dissenting analyses. Robert Blaskiewicz comments that examples of the term were used as early as the nineteenth century and states that its usage has always been derogatory. The term ‘conspiracy theory’ is itself the subject of a conspiracy theory, which posits that it was popularized by the CIA to discredit conspiratorial believers.

Characteristics of Conspiracy Theories

A conspiracy theory is not simply a conspiracy. It refers to hypothesized conspiracies with specific characteristics, such as opposing the mainstream consensus and claiming privileged access to socially persecuted knowledge. Real conspiracies are difficult to conceal and experience unexpected problems, but conspiracy theories suggest that they are unrealistic and simplify complex factors.

Common Subjects of Conspiracy Theories

Conspiracy beliefs are widespread worldwide, with common targets including societal elites, enemy tribes, and the Western world. In China, a widely published theory claims that events like Hitler’s rise and climate change were planned by the Rothschild family. Notable conspiracy theories include the JFK assassination, Apollo Moon landings, 9/11 attacks, world domination plots, and others.

Conspiracism as a Cultural Phenomenon

Conspiracism has emerged as a cultural phenomenon in the US, with conspiratorial thinking correlated to antigovernmental orientations and low political efficacy. Many Americans believe in at least some conspiracy theories, including 10% who think chemtrails are ‘completely true.’

Different Types of Conspiracy Theories

There are different types of conspiracy theories, including:

• Walker’s five kinds: Enemy Outside, Enemy Within, Enemy Above, Enemy Below, and Benevolent Conspiracies
• Barkun’s three classifications:
  • Event conspiracy theories (limited and well-defined events)
  • Systemic conspiracy theories (encompassing multiple events or a broader system) Theories about alleged machinations of various groups (e.g. Jews, Freemasons, Communism) propose broad goals such as securing control of a country or world.

Belief in Conspiracy Theories and Their Impact

Conspiracy theories can be local or international, focused on single events or covering multiple incidents. They typically rely on low-quality evidence, such as eyewitness testimony, and disregard objective analyses. They are reinforced by fallacious arguments, including circular reasoning and ‘cascade logic,’ which dismisses new evidence and portrays it as disinformation.

Consequences of Belief in Conspiracy Theories

Conspiracy theories can have severe consequences, such as contributing to prejudice, wars, genocides, and public health issues. They are associated with extremist groups and radicalized ideologies. In the workplace, conspiracy theories can lead to lower job satisfaction, decreased productivity, and economic consequences.

Interventions to Address Conspiracy Theories

Methods of refutation include providing facts, discrediting sources, and explaining invalid logic. Informing people about potential misleading information (inoculation) can also be effective. Promoting analytical thinking, reducing negative emotions, and improving personal hope can decrease the appeal of conspiracy theories among the general public.

Strategies for Reaching Conspiracy Theorists

Convincing conspiracist theorists is more difficult, as their belief systems rely on circular logic that supports each other. Strategies for reaching conspiracy theorists include presenting arguments by trusted messengers, affirming critical thinking, demonstrating empathy, and avoiding ridicule or aggressive deconstruction.

The Role of Emotion in Belief

Belief in the power of a cabal is an implicit assertion of human dignity—an unconscious affirmation that man is responsible for his own destiny. People formulate conspiracy theories to explain social group dynamics and perceived evil forces. Proposed psychological origins include projection, personal need for explanation, and thought disorders.

The Impact on Society

Conspiracy theories promote a negative view of others, increase alienation, reduce social capital, and lead to disempowerment. People who endorse these theories often feel alienated, unhappy, or disconnected from society. Research suggests that conspiracy theories are appealing because they offer explanations for complex events in a simple way, divide the world into light and darkness, and present themselves as special knowledge known only to a select few.

Historical Context

Historically, real conspiracies have had little effect and unforeseen consequences for the conspirators, whereas conspiracy theories often posit grand, sinister events. Al-Mumin Said warns against conspiracy theories, which ‘keep us not only from the truth but also from confronting our faults and problems.’ Osama bin Laden and Ayman al-Zawahiri used such theories to gain support for al-Qaeda.

Modern Examples

In Turkey, conspiracism is a prevalent phenomenon in culture and politics. Theories like the Judeo-Masonic conspiracy and war against Islam conspiracy are common. These ideas originated from dissatisfaction with Ottoman Empire reforms and Atatürk’s modernization efforts. Conspiracism also exists in the United States, where it has been linked to historical events such as Red Scares, McCarthy’s anti-communist campaign, and fears of immigrant hordes invading the US.

Conclusion

Conspiracy theories are complex phenomena that reflect deep-seated psychological and social issues. Understanding them is crucial for addressing their harmful effects on society. By promoting critical thinking and reducing feelings of uncertainty, we can combat these theories effectively.