In an era marked by the proliferation of conspiracy theories worldwide, analysing the multifaceted nature of conspiratorial thinking is critical to understanding democratic discourse and social cohesion. This panel seeks to unravel the complex interplay between conspiracy theories and conspiracy beliefs, focusing on the political, social, and epistemological dimensions that sustain these phenomena.
Drawing on insights from social sciences, the panel will explore the cognitive biases, social identities, and emotional needs that drive individuals to embrace conspiracy theories. It will examine the political contexts in which these beliefs flourish, including the roles of populism, partisanship, and political disenchantment. Additionally, the panel will address the epistemological challenges of conspiracy theories, questioning their status as knowledge claims and their impact on public trust and rational debate.
We invite contributions that dissect the relationship between individual attitudes to conspiracy beliefs and broader societal trends. The panel will benefit from empirical studies, theoretical analyses, and methodological innovations that shed light on the diffusion of conspiracy theories in contemporary information environments. By investigating both the supply side (the architects and disseminators of conspiracy theories) and the demand side (public engagement and attitudes), this panel aims to comprehensively understand the challenges posed by conspiracy theories to democratic engagement and the integrity of public discourse.