Conspiracism

Conspiracism is the tendency to interpret events as the result of secret, deliberate plots by powerful but hidden actors. It describes a worldview or disposition that questions official accounts and attributes, often with little or no verifiable evidence, complex happenings to covert conspiracies rather than to ordinary or visible causes. Conspiracism is distinct from evaluating a specific claim; it refers to a broader pattern of thinking that can color how people understand political, social, and historical events.

Psychological and social factors underpin conspiracism. People seek explanations, especially under uncertainty or crisis, and may rely on pattern recognition and agency detection to find hidden causes. Biases such as confirmation bias, proportionality bias (the idea that significant events must have significant causes), and the tendency to distrust authorities reinforce conspiratorial thinking. Social dynamics, including group identity, in-group/out-group distinctions, and distrust of elites or mainstream media, can amplify these beliefs. Online networks and echo chambers facilitate rapid spread and reinforcement of conspiratorial narratives.

Conspiracism has implications for public discourse and behavior. It can erode trust in institutions, undermine evidence-based policymaking, and contribute to the spread of misinformation. In some cases, it intersects with political extremism or harmful actions. Researchers study conspiracism across psychology, sociology, and political science, examining cognitive processes, social influences, and the consequences for democracy and public health. Debunking efforts, media literacy, and critical thinking education are among the approaches used to counter unfounded conspiratorial claims while recognizing legitimate questions about power and accountability.