Why Rational People Buy Into Conspiracy Theories?

by adjusted knowledge 43 Replies latest jw friends

• 

  Simon

  The problem with so many conspiracy theories (not just cover-ups / biased reporting) is that they would require culpability of an incredible number of people, many of which would have an incentive not to be involved.

  For fake moon landings it would need everyone at Nasa and broadcasters as well as the Russians who would have a clear incentive to expose the lie.

  Governments simply aren't so capable of being so organized. The real truth of things comes out whether that is a police or CIA operation or Watergate. There's always loose ends that can't be controlled.
• 

  James Mixon

  Conspiracy Theories are flying around for France.

  One that was reported "following the killing, two co-founders of the Free Gaze movement

  suggested the attack was carried out by the Israeli Mossad spy agency to

  malign Muslims, reported the Global Jewish news agency.

  Yes, as police engaged in a massive manhunt for Islamic terrorists in France, some

  in the Palestinian and anti-Zionist movements found a way to blame the entire two-day

  event on Israel.
• 

  Oubliette

  As intriguing as the OP's question is, the inverse is just as interesting and particularly relevant to those of us with loved ones still in the JW cult:

  Why do rational people fail to see conspiracies and corruption when the evidence is overwhelming and right in front to them?

  The same mechanisms apply:

  • Confirmation bias
  • Vulnerability
  • Confusion
  • Loss of security
  • A challenged world view with resultant fear and anxiety
    
  • Desire to preserve our present beliefs

  -
  

  Most people simply do not have what it takes to be sincere and open-minded enough to objectively look at the conflicting evidence and then make up their own minds about what reality is.

  If you ever hear someone say, "I refuse to believe .... [fill in the blank]," then you can be pretty sure that the evidence coming their way is more than their fragile psyche can presently handle.
  

  It is the first responsibility of every citizen to question authority. - Benjamin Franklin

  Denial. It ain't a river in Egypt!
  
• 

  adjusted knowledge

  Great quote. I'm a fan of Mr. Franklin.

  I agree with your assessment

  Most people simply do not have what it takes to be sincere and open-minded enough to objectively look at the conflicting evidence and then make up their own minds about what reality is.