Conspiracy theories explain distressing events as malevolent actions by powerful groups.
Why do people believe in secret plots when other explanations are more probable? On the …

Academic Abstract The motto of the conspiracist,“Do your own research,” may seem
ludicrous to scientists. Indeed, it is often dismissed as a mere rhetorical device that …

Conspiracy beliefs (ie beliefs in specific conspiracy theories or the more general conspiracy
mentality) are associated with a need for uniqueness and lower adherence to social norms …

The majority of psychological research highlights the role of lapses in rational thinking as a
significant contributing factor to conspiracy beliefs (CBs). However, historical examples …

In an age of mass communication, citizens need to learn how to detect and transmit reliable
scientific information. This need is exacerbated by the transmission of news through social …

In this study, we examine the perceived influence of others, across both strong and weak
social ties, on COVID-19 vaccination decisions in the United States. We add context to social …

In light of the complexity of some important matters, the best epistemic strategy for
laypersons is often to rely heavily on the judgments of subject matter experts. However …

Recent trends in conspiracy research have shifted from viewing conspiracy beliefs as a
consequence of paranoid thinking to understanding them through the lens of deep-seated …

Substantial minorities of the population report a low degree of trust in science, or endorse
conspiracy theories that violate basic scientific knowledge. This might indicate a wholesale …

Conspiracists have a motto:“Do your own research.” Could a general desire for such
epistemic autonomy—to make up one's own mind rather than deferring to others' testimony …