As we approach the upcoming election, we will all start seeing candidates and their supporters making claims online and on TV about who is responsible for the hardships in our lives. Sometimes, conspiracy theories even take hold in the campaign conversation. Why are conspiracy theories so popular, and why do we sometimes start believing them?
Watch this video to learn more about the cognitive and psychological science behind conspiracy theories.
Answer these questions after viewing the video and discuss what you have learned.
Discuss how to start building awareness in situations when someone is trying to use our emotional reactions to change our thinking. How can we use cognitive reflection to guard against falling for conspiracy theories?