Scientists from Emory University (USA) conducted a meta-analysis of 170 articles to understand why people believe in conspiracy theories. As it turns out, conspiracy theory gives them a sense of security and allows them to better understand their surroundings. A study on this has been published in the journal. Psychological Bulletin.

When their need for security and understanding of what is going on is not met, people may turn to conspiracy theories to explain their own failures. Financial problems and health problems also increase the belief in conspiracy theories.

Sensitivity to it is affected by personal characteristics. For example, narcissism and the need to feel one’s uniqueness. However, inability to think analytically and higher anxiety had a relatively low correlation with conspiratorial thinking.

People are also more willing to believe the crazy news from their environment or someone they consider equal.

As a result, the researchers concluded that not all supporters of conspiracy theories are necessarily simple-minded, ignorant, or stupid, as shown in popular culture. There may be very intelligent people among them.