The genesis of a conspiracy theory: Why do people believe in scientific conspiracy theories and how do they spread?

EMBO Rep. 2018 Apr;19(4):e45935. doi: 10.15252/embr.201845935. Epub 2018 Feb 28.

Abstract

Conspiracy theories about science can do real damage if they affect matters of health and disease. Understanding the psychology of a conspiracy theorist along with openness about how scientists come to conclusions could help to combat harmful theories.

Publication types

  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Information Dissemination
  • Perception
  • Public Opinion
  • Science / standards*