Conspiracy Theories about Infectious Diseases: An Introduction
Journal of Pacific Rim Psychology
; 15:8, 2021.
Article
in English
| Web of Science | ID: covidwho-1582517
ABSTRACT
Understanding why people believe conspiracy theories related to disease outbreaks and the consequences of such beliefs is critical for combating both the COVID-19 pandemic and its corresponding "infodemic." In the introduction to this special issue on conspiracy theories about infectious diseases, the authors first provide a brief overview of the narratives of conspiracy theories related to COVID-19, followed by a review of extant theoretical frameworks regarding the psychology of conspiracy beliefs. Specifically, they discuss how epistemic, existential, and social needs contribute to the holding of conspiracy beliefs. Then, the authors summarize the major findings from the nine empirical articles featured in this issue, particularly how they shed light on the antecedents and consequences of disease-related conspiracy beliefs. They conclude by discussing future directions for the study of disease-related conspiracy beliefs.
Full text:
Available
Collection:
Databases of international organizations
Database:
Web of Science
Language:
English
Journal:
Journal of Pacific Rim Psychology
Year:
2021
Document Type:
Article
Similar
MEDLINE
...
LILACS
LIS