Tools for Sense-Making Series- Episode 3
Why We Believe in Conspiracy Theories
Conspiracy theories, often dismissed as the realm of the delusional, serve a deeper psychological purpose. They provide a sense of control and understanding in a chaotic world.
The Need for Control
Some conspiracy theories give people a sense of power, making them believe they can uncover hidden truths and take control of the situation.
The Need for Intelligibility
Other conspiracy theories offer a sense of understanding, providing a framework to explain complex and confusing events. Even if the theory is far-fetched, it can produce a sense of clarity and reduce anxiety.
The Limitations of Rationality
Our brains are programmed to seek patterns and meaning. When faced with uncertainty, we often construct narratives to make sense of the world, even if those narratives are irrational or unsupported by evidence.
The Role of Empathy
Instead of dismissing people who believe in conspiracy theories, we should try to understand their perspective with empathy. Believers might struggle with their understanding of the world. They often seek meaning in a chaotic environment.
Using critical thinking skills, we can assist them with the navigation of their thoughts and find more concrete explanations.
By understanding why people believe in conspiracy theories, we can be more compassionate and better equipped to address the issues they raise.
For more insight for the understanding of conspiracy theories, please watch Navigating Patterns: Sense Making Series Episode 3:
Additional Episodes in the Tools for Sense-Making Series:
Our Views: The Dangers of Oversimplifying – Article | YouTube
Critical thinking – if A then what else? – Article | YouTube
Conspiracy theories and their utility
Where we are going? Part 2 – YouTube
Where we are going? Part 3 – YouTube
Where we need to be. Part 4 – Finalizing the model – YouTube
How to Think Better? Models – Part 5 – YouTube
The Trick of Socialism – YouTube
Cognitive Load – how it works! – YouTube
Understanding the Enchanted World – YouTube
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