Conspiracy theories abound throughout history, especially in times of crisis, such as the worldwide Covid-19 pandemic. People who believe these theories often have a sense of existential threat: a perceived danger to one’s own life or well-being. People then consume, believe, and share these theories as a way of making sense of that threat.
How to Manage Misinformation
People still talk about the sinister Illuminati as if the cabal was still at work today. Also, for many people, Elvis is still alive and the 1969 moon landing was completely faked. Social media has heightened the spread of these theories because of the ease with which one can sit in front of a computer and click and click. A person can look for information until they have satisfied their thirst for knowledge . The Internet can affirm any point of view one may have.
Endorsing and spreading misinformation may be associated with prejudice toward vulnerable groups, a decreased trust in government, decreased civil participation such as exercising one’s vote, and waiving good health habits such as getting vaccinated.
Social media outlets had banned radio host Alex Jones, who has claimed the validity of numerous theories, one being the Sandy Hook shooting was orchestrated by the U.S. government to promote gun control. But banning and censoring can backfire, in turn fueling the idea that the truth is being silenced.
Educating people, especially the young, about science and critical thinking would help. Plus, giving people more information that is evidence-based may help fend off the tendency to fall into a rabbit hole of misinformation.
Explore More About Conspiracy Theories
For a comprehensive understanding of conspiracy theories, read our complete guide: