People who believe in conspiracy theories are more likely to support autocracy and criticize democracy. This conclusion was reached by a group of scientists from England, Belgium and the Netherlands. To work published In the scientific journal European Journal of Social Psychology (ESPJ).
Most conspiracy theories suggest that hidden forces are responsible for major events, often involving deception and manipulation by powerful individuals or groups. Conspiracy theories thrive in conditions of distrust in institutions and authorities. Nowadays, it is often fueled by social networking algorithms that aim only to bring like-minded people together (creating so-called social “echo chambers”).
Scientists conducted three studies among 1,000 people in Greece and the United States, where they evaluated the tendency to believe in conspiracy theories and attitudes towards various political systems. Volunteers filled out various surveys about their views on the current government and conspiracy ideas.
The results of the first test showed that people prone to conspiracy theories were more likely to reject democratic institutions and turn to political cynicism (the belief that citizens cannot influence the actions of the government). The second and third tests revealed a relationship between belief in conspiracies and support for authoritarian methods of government.
Political skepticism and feelings of political powerlessness were the main factors linking conspiracy beliefs to greater support for autocratic leadership, according to the study’s authors.
“The article provides evidence of the relationship between belief in conspiracy theories and support for autocracy. From a societal perspective, these results may seem alarming, especially given how prevalent conspiracy theories are on the internet.
At the same time, a certain level of skepticism towards politicians may be necessary for democracy to work because it holds politicians accountable. “As long as critical and skeptical views are directed only at particular politicians or policies rather than at the democratic system as a whole, we can expect a healthy, functioning democracy,” the researchers concluded.
Russian scientists before I learnedThe tendency to believe in conspiracies increases as a person ages.