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If you’re a conspiracy theorist, then you’re crazy, right? That’s been the common belief for years, but recent studies prove that just the opposite is true.
Researchers — psychologists and social scientists, mostly — in the U.S. and United Kingdom say data indicate that, contrary to those mainstream media stereotypes, “conspiracy theorists” appear to be more sane than people who accept official versions of controversial and contested events.
Also, it seems that those who do not believe in the conspiracies were not just hostile but fanatically attached to their own conspiracy theories as well. The researchers said that, according to the anti-conspiracy holders, their own theory of 9/11 — one which says 19 Muslims, none of whom could fly commercial airliners with any proficiency, pulled off an amazing surprise attack under the direction of a man on dialysis (Osama bin Laden) who was living in a cave somewhere in Afghanistan — is unwaveringly true.
Meanwhile, “conspiracists,” on the other hand, did not have to pretend to have a theory that completely explained the events of 9/11. “For people who think 9/11 was a government conspiracy, the focus is not on promoting a specific rival theory, but in trying to debunk the official account,” the researchers said.
originally posted by: rickymouse
What a bummer. Now they are saying that I am sane? I don't want to be considered normal, that is so boring.
originally posted by: Domo1
Link
It's from Natural News so I immediately distrust but will read it when I have time.
originally posted by: pl3bscheese
Here is the actual study in reference:
Link
originally posted by: pl3bscheese
a reply to: OrionsGem
Surely you're not talking about my link? No assumption. It is the study referenced.
The words are taken out of context, in order to convey a message not given in the actual study.
In other words, this is sensationalism, and not journalism.
The actual study says nothing of conspiracy theorists
originally posted by: pl3bscheese
a reply to: OrionsGem
Surely you're not talking about my link? No assumption. It is the study referenced.
The words are taken out of context, in order to convey a message not given in the actual study.
In other words, this is sensationalism, and not journalism.
The actual study makes no conclusion that conspiracy theorists are more sane, or thinking more critically.
It talks of their locus of control being externalized, and their belief system having to do with their flavor of conspiracy theories they tend to favor.
Although the psychological literature on conspiracy belief has a relatively short history, with most of the relevant research having been conducted only within the past twenty years, it has revealed a great deal regarding individual differences between those who generally believe conspiracy theories (whom we call “conspiracists”) and those who prefer conventional explanations (whom we call “conventionalists”).
An opportunity to test this idea presents itself in the form of observation of online discourse. In spite of, or perhaps because of, the lack of mainstream public acceptance for their theories, many conspiracists, both prominent and otherwise, appear to see themselves as having a duty to spread their views to the public at large.
The actual study makes no conclusion that conspiracy theorists are more sane, or thinking more critically.