Creating Conspiracy Beliefs: How Our Thoughts Are Shaped

The book explores how fear and uncertainty can lead people to believe in conspiracy theories, and how the media plays a role in spreading these beliefs. It offers a comprehensive overview of conspiracy beliefs from a multi-disciplinary perspective, using insights from psychology, political science, communication, and information sciences to develop and test a practical method for framing and understanding conspiracy theories. The book provides unprecedented data from six empirical studies and unpicks the complexity of the process that leads to the empowerment of conspiracy beliefs.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 25 November 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Conspiracy theories have gained unprecedented traction in recent times, spreading rapidly and widely across various societies. In the face of fear and uncertainty, individuals often succumb to the allure of false narratives of danger and hidden plots, driven by a desire to find explanations and reassurance. However, it is crucial to recognize that these beliefs alone cannot be fully understood without considering the role and ideological bias of the media. This timely book delves into the complex dynamics of why some individuals respond to their fear of a threat by creating or believing in conspiracy stories. By integrating insights from psychology, political science, communication, and information sciences, the author aims to provide a comprehensive overview and theory of how conspiracy beliefs manifest. Through a multi-disciplinary approach, rigorous research develops and tests a practical and straightforward framework for framing and understanding conspiracy theories. The book offers a wealth of new data derived from six empirical studies, shedding light on the intricate processes that lead to the empowerment of conspiracy beliefs. By unraveling the complexities involved, the book aims to empower readers with a deeper understanding of these phenomena and the potential implications they hold for our society.

Weight: 482g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108965026
Edition number: New ed