Conspiracy beliefs: How crises shape our way of thinking!

Conspiracy beliefs: How crises shape our way of thinking!

As of May 7, 2025, research on conspiracy beliefs is generating continued interest in social science. Florian Hessel, a renowned social scientist, analyzes the emergence of conspiracy ideas since the 19th century. He notes that these ideas are particularly cyclical in different phases of history. Particularly during the Covid pandemic, conspiracy ideas such as criticism of vaccinations and alternative medicine experienced a strong upswing.

Hessel speaks of a paradoxical phenomenon: once ascended, the members of such religious communities often accept services from SECRET POWERS. But the perception of crises can also change. A decrease in the sense of crisis leads to a decrease in the spread of these ideas.

The core of the conspiracy myths

At the core of conspiracy beliefs is the belief in hidden, powerful groups that manipulate or control society. Historically, such beliefs can be traced back to the Industrial Revolution and the French Revolution. The latter revolution paved the way for myths about the Illuminati and the Freemasons.

In the 19th century, the theory of the Jewish world conspiracy developed, which was exploited by the Nazis. Hessel addresses the ongoing connection of these myths with anti-Semitic, xenophobic and anti-feminist views, which often display an authoritarian and anti-democratic character.

Social and psychological aspects

The current conspiracy ideas are spreading primarily through digital social media. A survey by the Leipzig Authoritarianism Study shows that around a third of those surveyed accept such ideas as an explanatory model. These ideas not only undermine the foundations of democracy, but also make respectful dialogue in society difficult.

Hessel emphasizes that the phenomenon of conspiracy beliefs can also be seen as a symptom of social conditions and the political-cultural climate. In order to counteract these anti-democratic currents, education, enlightenment and social justice are crucial. It is important to tolerate contradictions and recognize other legitimate interests.

Psychological research has shown that people with a tendency to believe in conspiracy tend to search for order in a chaotic world. This tendency can lead to higher self-esteem and help bring order to the world. Studies by Ted Goertzel in the 1990s and by Jennifer A. Whitson and Adam D. Galinsky in 2008 make it clear that this belief satisfies existential, social, and epistemic needs. Especially in crisis situations, people look for control and security, which can increase belief in conspiracy.

In addition, recent evidence shows that cognitive distortions play a role in conspiracy thinking. This is particularly true for drastic events. Dramatic upheavals, such as the death of a national leader, often increase belief in conspiracies. Evidence suggests that research on conspiracy beliefs has become systematized and increasingly theoretically based.

At a time when authoritarian structures often act as convenient havens, democracy requires active learning and engagement. Nevertheless, Hessel sees hope in people's ability to reason and their commitment to solidarity in society. The challenge remains to defeat the spread of conspiracy theories and promote open dialogue that is consistent with the foundations of democracy.

For further information on the topic and various aspects of conspiracy belief, you can find detailed analyzes at news.rub.de, unipub.uni-graz.at and bpb.de.