The Psychology Of Conspiracy Theories

the psychology of conspiracy theories Who believes in conspiracy theories, and why are some people more susceptible to them than others? What are the consequences of such beliefs? Has a conspiracy theory ever turned out to be true? The Psychology of Conspiracy Theories debunks the myth that conspiracy theories are a modern phenomenon, exploring their broad social contexts, from politics to the workplace. The book explains why some people are more susceptible to these beliefs than others, and how they are produced by recognizable and predictable psychological processes. Featuring examples such as the 9/11 terrorist attacks and climate change, The Psychology of Conspiracy Theories shows us that while such beliefs are not always irrational and are not a pathological trait, they can be harmful to individuals and society. Jan-Willem van Prooijen is an Associate Professor of Social and Organizational Psychology at VU Amsterdam, and Senior Researcher at the Netherlands Institute for the Study of Crime and Law Enforcement. THE PSYCHOLOGY OF EVERYTHING The Psychology of Everything is a series of books which debunk the myths and pseudo-science surrounding some of life’s biggest questions. The series explores the hidden psychological factors that drive us, from our sub-conscious desires and aversions, to the innate social instincts handed to us across the generations. Accessible, informative, and always intriguing, each book is written by an expert in the field, examining how research-based knowledge compares with popular wisdom, and illustrating the potential of psychology to enrich our understanding of humanity and modern life. Applying a psychological lens to an array of topics and contemporary concerns – from sex to addiction to conspiracy theories – The Psychology of Everything will make you look at everything in a new way. Titles in the series: The Psychology of Grief Richard Gross The Psychology of Sex Meg-John Barker The Psychology of Dieting Jane Ogden The Psychology of Performance Stewart T. Cotterill The Psychology of Conspiracy Theories Jan-Willem van Prooijen The Psychology of Addiction Jenny Svanberg The Psychology of Fashion Carolyn Mair The Psychology of Trust Ken J. Rotenberg The Psychology of Gardening Harriet Gross The Psychology of Working Life Toon Taris The Psychology of Gender Gary W. Wood For further information about this series please visit www.thepsychologyofeverything.co.uk the psychology of conspiracy theories jan-willem van prooijen First published 2018 by Routledge 2 Park Square, Milton Park, Abingdon, Oxon OX14 4RN and by Routledge 711 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017 Routledge is an imprint of the Taylor & Francis Group, an informa business © 2018 Jan-Willem van Prooijen The right of Jan-Willem van Prooijen to be identified as author of this work has been asserted by him in accordance with sections 77 and 78 of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reprinted or reproduced or utilized i