Goldsmiths University of London
Lewisham Way, New Cross, London SE14 6NW
UK
Full title ‘The psychology of belief in conspiracy theories: Correlates, causes & consequences’
Was 9/11 an inside job? Is climate change a hoax? Was Princess Diana murdered? Millions of people appear to think so, disbelieving official explanations for significant events in favour of alternative accounts that are often called ‘conspiracy theories’. Little is known about the psychological factors that influence belief in conspiracy theories, and less still is known about their consequences. In this talk, I will outline an ongoing programme of research in which my colleagues and I have attempted to address these gaps in knowledge.
Biography
Karen Douglas is a Professor in Social Psychology at the University of Kent. In addition to conducting work on the psychology of conspiracy theories, she is involved in projects examining sexism in language, the influence of sexist ideology on attitudes toward pregnant women, and the psychology of internet behaviour.
This talk is part of the Anomalistic Psychology Research Unit Invited Speaker Series, 2014/15.