Conspiracy theories examples. Apr 20, 2020 · As the COVID-19 crisis worsens, the world also faces a global misinformation pandemic. adult citizens who say "definitely true" or "probably true") A big list of 'american political conspiracy theories' words. [dubious – discuss] Such theories draw from actual conspiracies, in which individuals work together covertly in order to unravel a larger system. Nov 19, 2024 · Check out the 10 most popular conspiracy theories, which have fascinated and divided people and explored mysteries, secrets, and hidden truths. This conflict underscores the ongoing relevance and importance of understanding the psychology of conspiracy theories as a weapon in the arsenal of future interventions to redress the consequences of conspiracy beliefs. Here are some of the more well-known conspiracy theories: the moon landing never Jul 18, 2024 · Dive into the captivating world of 11 famous conspiracy theories, from the JFK assassination to the moon landing hoax. Oct 30, 2025 · How AGI became the most consequential conspiracy theory of our time The idea that machines will be as smart as—or smarter than—humans has hijacked an entire industry. Stacker creates a comprehensive list of conspiracy theories from a variety of countries and time periods, ranging from scientific diseases to why certain sports victories occurred. Such explanations reject the accepted narrative surrounding those events; indeed, the official version may be seen as further proof of the conspiracy. People who believe these theories often have a sense of existential threat: a Dec 5, 2024 · The left’s embrace of conspiracy theories such as those publicized in filmmaker Michael Moore’s documentaries is well-documented. Here are the top 10 conspiracy theories making the rounds. George Soros conspiracies or QAnon) were common throughout the presidencies of Donald Trump, [7][10][11][12][13][14] and both right-leaning and left-leaning misinformation circles promote allegations of paid or Mar 10, 2026 · A Never-Ending Conspiracy Theory in Remote Alaska Why are some people convinced that nefarious experiments are happening at HAARP? Nov 7, 2024 · Right-wing conspiracy theories pushing people to start preparing for the election to be "stolen" in 2028 are already starting to do the rounds. Jun 26, 2023 · People can be prone to believe in conspiracy theories due to a combination of personality traits and motivations, including relying strongly on their intuition, feeling a sense of antagonism and superiority toward others, and perceiving threats in their environment. [24] The QAnon conspiracy theory is an ideal example of this. [46][15][6] It features Orientalist portrayals of Muslims as barbaric and hypersexual, [32] and carries the Feb 25, 2024 · From the Illuminati and the New World Order to bio-engineered pandemics, conspiracy theories take on various forms. Feb 5, 2026 · A collection of theories It’s now a conspiracy theory—or rather, a large collection of them all housed under the title “Epstein files. Conspiracy theories are beliefs that certain events or situations result from hidden, often malicious plots by powerful people or groups. Which ones will you believe? Aug 19, 2022 · Area 51, the JFK assassination, sightings of Bigfoot: These have sparked some of the most popular conspiracy theories countrywide. The earliest usage example it cites is a 1909 article in The American Conspiracy theories are more prevalent than they’ve ever been. S. Jul 3, 2025 · University of Rochester faculty explain how political conspiracy theories start and spread, and why people believe them. List of conspiracy theories The Eye of Providence, or the all-seeing eye of God, seen here on the US$1 bill, has been taken by some to be evidence of a conspiracy involving the Founding Fathers of the United States and the Illuminati. Why do so many people around the globe believe conspiracy theories, and why are they so influential? Previous research focused on the proximate mechanisms underlying Abstract Belief in conspiracy theories—such as that the 9/11 terrorist attacks were an inside job or that the pharmaceutical industry deliberately spreads diseases—is a widespread and culturally universal phenomenon. In United States politics, conspiracy theories are beliefs that a major political situation is the result of secretive collusion by powerful people striving to harm a rival group or undermine society in general. Some of them are "conspiracy theories," while others are real conspiracies. How to use conspiracy theory in a sentence. We explore some of the most common conspiracy theories among young people including the Earth is flat and the moon landing is a hoax. Proponents of the Pizzagate conspiracy theory falsely claimed the emails contained coded messages that connected several high-ranking Democratic Party officials and U. ” And like all conspiracy theories, those who have embraced it are convinced that it will provide answers to all the questions about the world that trouble them and solutions to its problems. Oct 26, 2022 · Here, we take a look at the craziest conspiracy theories that people have actually believed over the years, from an Earth within Earth to Prince Charles living as a closeted vampire. May 23, 2025 · To compile a list of conspiracy theories that were actually true, 24/7 Tempo consulted a range of entertainment, historical, and periodical publications. Aug 31, 2023 · The lizard people conspiracy theory claims that there is a secret reptilian humanoid population running world governments. Conspiracy theories are nothing new in the United States, says Cynthia Miller-Idriss, an American University sociology professor who focuses on extremism and radicalisation May 23, 2023 · Area 51, the JFK assassination, sightings of Bigfoot: These have sparked some of the most popular conspiracy theories countrywide. Discover the different types and examples of conspiracy theories and review their impact. [7] Victims' relatives questioned the veracity of the Malaysian government 's statements about the fate of the aircraft. They organized a protest at Feb 24, 2026 · The guide includes both scholarly and popular resources that explore either specific contemporary conspiracy theories or conspiracy theorizing as a phenomenon. Next, what are the societal risks and rewards associated with conspiracy theories? By focusing on politics and science, we argue that conspiracy theories do more harm than good. From whispers about space travel to modern fears of engineered disasters, these ideas persist because they tap into our innate desire for order amid chaos. e. However, psychological scientists have started paying close attention to them only in the past 20 years. Mar 4, 2026 · Conspiracy theory, an attempt to explain harmful or tragic events as the result of the actions of a small powerful group. [153] Finally, social media constitutes platforms where conspiracy theories spread and flourish, by assembling large groups of like-minded people, circumventing the gatekeeping of traditional media, and providing a safe space for communicating generally stigmatized knowledge. Dec 8, 2023 · Which conspiracy theories do Democrats and Republicans believe? Do you think the following statements are true or not true? (% of U. Jan 30, 2026 · Why do people believe in conspiracy theories? Discover the psychological factors behind the tendency to believe in conspiracy theories. From Y2K to Taylor Swift's alleged government collusion, we're exploring the most mind-blowing conspiracies that had everyone talking! Buckle up for a wild ride through the most mind-bending conspiracy theories that have captured the public imagination! From alien cover-ups to secret global cabals, we're diving deep into the world of outlandish claims that some people believe are actually true. Nov 21, 2024 · These are 20 of the most popular conspiracy theories, with a brief explanation of each and the reasons behind their popularity or controversy: 1. 6 days ago · Notable Examples Emotional Appeal Notable conspiracy theories include beliefs that the Illuminati orchestrates global events, that the Epstein files mask elite crimes, and that multiple secret actors were involved in the assassination of John F. [5][6] Oct 12, 2024 · His rhetoric has veered more than ever into conspiracy theories and rumors, like when he amplified false claims about Haitian immigrants in Ohio eating pets. [58][152] Zoological conspiracy theories have been propagated by Arab media and Arabic language websites, alleging a "Zionist plot" behind the use of animals to attack civilians or to conduct espionage. Karen Douglas, PhD, discusses psychological research on how conspiracy theories start, why they persist, who is most likely to believe them and whether there is any way to combat them effectively. 3 days ago · Chain of Ideas by Ibram X Kendi review – anatomy of a conspiracy theory This careful analysis of so-called ‘great replacement theory’ offers a lens through which to view our broken politics Oct 5, 2018 · The kind of conspiracy theories that wreak havoc on the internet have knowable ancestors: the conspiracies that erupt every time there’s a significant advance in communication technology. In a political context, a conspiracy refers to a group of people united in the goal of damaging, usurping, or overthrowing an established political power. We Mar 2, 2021 · False conspiracy theories have always been a part of U. If you think conspiracy theories spread only because people are stupid, this essay probably isn’t for you. [1][2][3] Often, the struggle We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. The conspiracy theory relies on disinformation to conduct its hate campaign, [15] and is noted for its similarities to other historic hate campaigns as well as contemporary white nationalist conspiracy theories and Western Islamophobia. The meaning of CONSPIRACY THEORY is a theory that explains an event or set of circumstances as the result of a secret plot by usually powerful conspirators; also : a theory asserting that a secret of great importance is being kept from the public. While it might be difficult to disprove the existence of [] The post 11 Unbelievable Conspiracy Theories That Were Actually True Mar 3, 2026 · The attacks on Iran also triggered a resurgence of longstanding antisemitic conspiracy theories linking Israel to the 9/11 attacks. Dec 15, 2025 · Learn about the history of conspiracy theories, theories about why we believe in them, and some examples of well-known conspiracy theories. Dec 20, 2018 · In the twentieth century, conspiracy theories continued to evolve, and many Americans began to suspect the U. Oct 5, 2022 · In the year 2021, conspiracy theories run rampant, from the halls of Congress to viral Facebook and blush-pink Instagram posts. Kennedy. Conspiracy theories are abundant in social and political discourse, with serious consequences for individuals, groups, and societies. Do you believe any of them? Nov 18, 2020 · Psychologists’ research offers insight into why people put faith in conspiracy theories such as QAnon. To address this trend, the European Commission and UNESCO are publicising a set of ten educational infographics helping citizens identify, debunk and counter conspiracy theories. Mar 19, 2017 · America's most popular conspiracy theories and the science behind them. Conspiracy theories that behave like viruses themselves are spreading just as rapidly online as SARS-CoV-2 does offline. Some are quite convincing, while others are downright laughable. But there are We explore some of the most common conspiracy theories among young people including the Earth is flat and the moon landing is a hoax. Jan 3, 2022 · From a flat Earth to a fake moon landing, Newsweek has set out some of the most prominent conspiracy theories and where science stands on them. But there are Oct 23, 2011 · From September 11th to government weather control, we explore the most prominent and popular conspiracy theories of our history. <p>Conspiracy theories are interpretations of disputed events that suggest they are the result of secret plots by groups rather than isolated individuals. Oct 3, 2022 · From Beyoncé being part of the Illuminati to NASA faking the moon landing, read on for a list of some of the most famous conspiracy theories in recent history. What are conspiracy theories? A conspiracy theory is defined as a belief that a secret but influential group - for example a political party - is controlling events behind the scenes. Why do so many people around the globe believe conspiracy theories, and why are they so influential? Previous research focused on the proximate mechanisms underlying Apr 28, 2020 · As conspiracy theories about COVID-19 take root in the United States, understanding the psychological foundations of conspiracy beliefs is increasingly critical. We've compiled all the words related to american political conspiracy theories and organised them in terms of their relevance and association with american political conspiracy theories. You’ve probably seen some videos alleging that a celebrity or some popular leader was caught shapeshifting. For now, however, I'm working on a conceptual argument about journalistic 'moral panic' about conspiracy theories as an epistemic injustice and democratic harm. From Y2K to Taylor Swift's alleged government collusion, we're exploring We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Jun 2, 2020 · Below are twelve of the most popular conspiracy theories. Oswald Didn’t Kill Kennedy (Alone, Anyway) These might have helped. Mar 27, 2024 · Conspiracy theories and misinformation on social media began clouding coverage of the July 13 attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump almost immediately after it happened. Nov 13, 2025 · Not all so-called “ conspiracy theories ” (“minority viewpoints”) are baseless. Conspiracy Theory Context Due to the rise of the internet and social media as our primary mode of communication, information gathering, and political engagement, we are now more engaged with information than ever before. We Mar 27, 2024 · Conspiracy theories and misinformation on social media began clouding coverage of the July 13 attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump almost immediately after it happened. This article uncovers 10 of the most influential examples, blending historical depth with 2025's fresh Conspiracy theories are more prevalent than they’ve ever been. Popular examples are the theory that the first moon landing was a hoax staged by NASA, or the theory that the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center were not (exclusively) conducted by al-Qaeda, but that the US government conspired Dive into the world of conspiracy theories that have captivated, shocked, and bewildered us over the past quarter-century. Apr 11, 2021 · Consider these six prevalent conspiracy theories: old and new … 1. Popular examples are the theory that the first moon landing was a hoax staged by NASA, or the theory that the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center were not (exclusively) conducted by al-Qaeda, but that the US government conspired 2 days ago · Following Charlie Kirk’s death, many celebrities have spoken out against Erika Kirk, accusing her of trying to capitalize on the situation, with many even alluding to certain conspiracy theories Conspiracy Theories The term “conspiracy theory” refers to a theory or explanation that features a conspiracy among a group of agents as a central ingredient. restaurants with an alleged human-trafficking and child sex ring. Nov 18, 2020 · Conspiracy theories, explained Americans are embracing dangerous conspiratorial beliefs, from QAnon to coronavirus denial. From the JFK assassination to weather control and the New World Order: 50 years of conspiracy theory. A conspiracy can also be used for infiltration of the governing system. These theories usually lack credible evidence, reject official explanations, emphasize secrecy and deception, and rely on the idea that important truths are being deliberately concealed from the public. Abstract Belief in conspiracy theories—such as that the 9/11 terrorist attacks were an inside job or that the pharmaceutical industry deliberately spreads diseases—is a widespread and culturally universal phenomenon. Years later, conspiracy theories suggesting that Jeffrey Epstein is alive and hiding in Israel began to surface. One of the establishments allegedly involved was the Comet Ping Pong pizzeria in Washington, D. Conspiracy theories, moral panics, and urban legends can overlap and any or all of them can be fake news. What psychological factors drive the popularity of conspiracy theories, which explain important events as secret plots by powerful and malevolent groups? What are the psychological consequences of adopting these theories? We review the current Here, we explain how conspiracy theories are shared among individuals and spread through traditional and social media platforms. [1] In some cases, claims that were widely dismissed ended up being validated by evidence years later. Each of these examples exemplifies elements of secrecy and mistrust. C. Conspiracy theories about paid or professional protesters and coordinated protests by groups like antifa and "global elites" (i. 19 Examples and Case-Studies in Conspiracy Theories Example One: Heaven’s Gate (Nico) Cult groups are prime examples of conspiracy theory as community, as members of a cult are joined together by a common belief in something otherwise considered taboo or outright ridiculous by the majority of society. The Illuminati are the secret rulers of the world: The belief that the world is run by this 18th-century Bavarian secret Dec 17, 2020 · However, conspiracy theories often add causes—conspiratorial ones—to explanations offered by their non-conspiratorial rivals: e. For example, “Sneako,” known for using his popular streaming platform to boost antisemites, published an X post with a video of Israelis singing in a bomb shelter, commenting that "Israelis dancing in a bomb The Oxford English Dictionary defines conspiracy theory as "the theory that an event or phenomenon occurs as a result of a conspiracy between interested parties; spec. g. history, but experts say they're spreading faster and wider than ever before. Conversely, if you think every conspiracy theory out there is secretly true, it 2 days ago · Following Charlie Kirk’s death, many celebrities have spoken out against Erika Kirk, accusing her of trying to capitalize on the situation, with many even alluding to certain conspiracy theories Conspiracy Theories The term “conspiracy theory” refers to a theory or explanation that features a conspiracy among a group of agents as a central ingredient. There are plenty of conspiracy theories out there that help fuel the imaginations of the truly paranoid; NASA faked the moon landing, Paul McCartney has been dead since 1967, 9/11 was an inside job, and hybrid lizard humanoids are the real rulers of planet Earth. These theories gained more credibility after the revelation of real government conspiracies, notably CIA assassination plots, the Watergate scandal, and the Iran–-Contra affair. But the most conspicuous example of this came with the Russia collusion hoax based on the debunked claim that Donald Trump colluded with Moscow to steal the 2016 election. [1]: 58 [2]: 47–49 This is a list of notable conspiracy theories. These theories have existed throughout human history, often fueled by social anxieties and a desire to understand complex phenomena. Typically, the final goal is for the conspirators to gain power, often through a revolutionary coup d'état or assassination. Our research shows that beliefs in two popular variants of COVID-19 conspiracy theory are the joint product of the psychological predispositions 1) to reject information coming from experts and other authority figures and 2) Oct 16, 2023 · 24/7 Tempo has compiled a list of some of the most unbelievable conspiracy theories using sources such as LiveScience, Newsone, Snopes, History, Popular Mechanics, The Atlantic, and National How to spot a conspiracy theory online BBC Verify's Marianna Spring guides 18-year-old Nathan through how to spot a conspiracy theory online and separate fact from fiction. Mar 3, 2026 · Conspiracy Theories Common Types of Conspiracy Theories Conspiracy theories are usually conceived as explanations for events that provoke widespread social anxiety and uncertainty, conditions under which people are eager for explanations. Feb 7, 2022 · Conspiracies are all around us. They can serve various psychological functions, such as expressing frustration towards perceived injustices Oct 1, 2022 · Conspiracy theories about the Russian-Ukrainian War will likely foster similar outcomes. We review the spectacular progress that has since been made and some of the limitations of research so far, and we consider the prospects for further . Identifying conspiracy theories The coronavirus pandemic has seen a rise in harmful and misleading conspiracy theories, mostly spreading online. Below are several notable examples from government, corporate, medical, and other spheres, along with brief explanations and the evidence that confirmed them: Apr 4, 2013 · A new national poll finds that many Americans still believe conspiracy theories that can be easily debunked by science. Nov 28, 2025 · Conspiracy theories have long fascinated and divided societies, turning everyday uncertainties into grand narratives of hidden agendas. Learn what a conspiracy theory is, and explore the characteristics. The Nazis Came From Conspiracy theories Holocaust denial and Jewish conspiracy theories are also considered forms of antisemitism. List of conspiracy theories The Eye of Providence, or the all-seeing eye of God, seen here on the US$1 bill, has been taken by some to be evidence of a conspiracy involving the Founding Fathers of the United States and the Illuminati. On the 40th anniversary of the moon landing — or was it just a sinister hoax? — TIME looks at 10 of the world's most enduring conspiracy theories Conspiracy theories are often utterly preposterous and totally lacking in credible evidence, but they are almost impossible to disprove, at least in the minds of believers. It can sometimes seem like every major news event is accompanied by an online chorus of cynics and trolls who insist things are not as they seem, and that ominous puppet-masters are manipulating events in the shadows. a belief that some covert but influential agency (typically political in motivation and oppressive in intent) is responsible for an unexplained event". , the “Pizzagate” conspiracy theory[18] claimed that kids were at a pizza shop because of a child-trafficking ring’s activities. government itself of plotting against them. Dive into the world of conspiracy theories that have captivated, shocked, and bewildered us over the past quarter-century. From lizard May 14, 2025 · Popular examples of the Mandela effect How do conspiracy theories relate to the Mandela effect? What can you do if you're experiencing false memories? Can hypnosis help retrieve real memories? 6 days ago · For example, on November 12th, 2019, Redditor Sohami posted a Megamind meme about Epstein being alive to the /r/memes [11] subreddit, receiving over 28,000 upvotes and 180 comments in six years. According to Rob Brotherton, a psychology lecturer at Goldsmiths, University of London, whenever there is a lack of conclusive information following headline-grabbing events, conspiracy theorists rush to fill the factual vacuum that is created. Dec 31, 2025 · From flat Earth to UFOs, a hollow Moon and the Black Knight spacecraft, the biggest space conspiracy theories and how to defeat them. Moon Landing Hoax Some believe NASA faked the 1969 … Conspiracy theories abound throughout history, especially in times of crisis, such as the worldwide Covid-19 pandemic. May 25, 2020 · From political upheavals to anxieties about sex, technology and women, it turns out conspiracy theories can tell us a lot about what’s going on in our societies – and how to fix them. Blaming 5G This conspiracy theory should be easy to debunk: it is biologically impossible for […] This is a list of political conspiracies. Sep 12, 2024 · From a faked moon landing to wild ideas about JFK's assassination, conspiracy theories and believers abound. oyslarc vfkdmj ypgqrdo nik cuzlymsk tuyrhlo zpsjqn pjj laps beds