conspiracy theory
Definition
Conspiracy theory refers to false or misleading information that runs counter to formal logic, objective evidence, or an established scientific consensus. Research on conspiracy theories has traditionally relied on randomized laboratory experiments and observational studies to establish causality, though these approaches face inherent constraints from ethical considerations and feasibility limitations. The field would benefit from adopting a formal counterfactual framework of causality and expanded methodological approaches, including natural experiments such as instrumental variable analysis, regression discontinuity design, difference-in-differences, and synthetic control methods. Such approaches enable researchers to draw more robust causal inferences about the mechanisms underlying belief in conspiracy theories and the effectiveness of interventions, while moving beyond the restrictions imposed by laboratory-based paradigms.
Sources: Tay et al. (2024)
Related Terms
Applications
Conspiracy Theory and Misinformation
Conspiracy theories and misinformation are closely related phenomena, both involving false or misleading information that contradicts objective evidence or scientific consensus. Both fields would benefit from adopting formal causal inference frameworks.
Sources: Tay et al. (2024)
Conspiracy Theory and Interventions
A range of interventions against conspiracy theories have been proposed. Determining whether such interventions actually improve outcomes requires testing causal relations through rigorous methodological approaches.
Sources: Tay et al. (2024)
