Psychology
The Sociology of Conspiracy Theories and Distrust in Institutions
Quick fact
Research shows that belief in conspiracy theories is less about lack of education and more about feelings of powerlessness and a desire for control—people often adopt conspiracy theories when institutional trust is low and they feel their social group is unfairly deprived.
Why this is interesting
Why do millions of people, despite access to vast information, insist that the Moon landing was faked or that vaccines are microchips? Is it just ignorance, or is something deeper at play?