Why do people believe in conspiracy theories

The fact that we want to see the world clear and orderly - and because of that we are fallible thinking.

According to recent studies, the human need to structure directly related to the belief in conspiracy theoriesConnecting the dots: how personal need for structure produces false consumer pattern perceptions. . This is our demand leads to the fact that we notice the connection - the constellations, clouds in the form of animals' vaccinations cause autism "- where they do not.

This ability was essential for the survival of our ancestors: it is better because the mistaken bush in the dark for a predator than to miss a real danger. But now, because of this habit, we often find non-existing causal relationships. Affect us and other factors.

social pressure

Status of the group is often for us is more important than correctness. Therefore, we constantly compare their actions and beliefs with other people and change them so as not to stand out.

Surely you've noticed that if only a few people to stop at a seller's market, as immediately formed near the crowd with them. The same principle applies with ideas

If a lot of people believe in some kind of information, we deem it credible.

And social proof - the only one of the logical error, because of which we ignore the evidence. also related to the confirmation of the tendency of opinion with him. We always strive to find the data that support our views, and fended off information which refutes them. Recall, for example, the last time you watched some talk show. What arguments seem convincing to you: contrary to your opinion or support it?

This thinking error It is also reflected in the tendency to select information from sources that are consistent with our beliefs. Therefore, for example, our political views determine which newspapers and news sites we read.

Of course, there is a belief system that detects logical errors and attempts to fix them - science. With the help of experiments and observations of scientists from individual cases are strange facts, get rid of addiction to validate his point of view and recognize that the theory can be corrected with the introduction of new evidence.

reverse effect

Do not attempt to expose the conspiracy theories and other myths, contrasting them with reality. This leads to the opposite effectThe Backfire Effect in the Context of Journalistic Coverage and Immediate Judgments as Prevention Strategy. : Myth is remembered better than refuting its fact.

Moreover, reporting new information to people with a firmly established opinion, we only strengthen their viewsWhen Corrections Fail: The Persistence of Political Misperceptions. . New evidence cause inconsistencies in the outlook and emotional discomfort. Rather than change his point of view, people usually resort to self-justification and begin to experience the opposite opinion even greater hostility. This phenomenon, called the "boomerang effect" greatly complicates attempts to dissuade someone astray.

How could convince someone to inconsistency of his theory

Of course, the facts are very important. But only by appealing to them to convince someone not always possible. But knowing the common thinking errors, you will be able to influence the interlocutor.

• Do not forget that we are more likely to listen to those who feel part of the group. Therefore, before you persuade your opponent, try to find him something in common.
• In his speech did not mention the myths and misconceptions. Skip to main, for example: "Flu shots are safe and reduceVaccine Effectiveness - How Well Does the Flu Vaccine Work? chances of getting 50-60%. " Everything, nothing else is added.
• Does not dispute the opponent's point of view, so he immediately angry. Instead, offer an explanation that overlaps with already existing in his views. For example, conservatives deny climate change are more likely to change their opinionSystem Justification, the Denial of Global Warming, and the Possibility of "System-Sanctioned Change". If in a discussion related to the protection of the environment for business opportunities.
• People are more convincing storiesUsing narratives and storytelling to communicate science with nonexpert audiences. Than debate or description. Stories unite cause and effect, help to convincingly show the conclusions that you want to convey to his interlocutor.

In addition, it is very important to improve scientific literacy. It is not the knowledge of scientific facts and formulas, and the ability to navigate in scientific methods, analytical thinking. Most of us will never become scientists, but every day we are faced with the science, and the ability to critically evaluate scientific statements all we needCritical Science Literacy. .