Why Conspiracies and Extreme Beliefs Elicite Strong Reactions

Conspiracy theorists and those with extreme religious beliefs often react strongly when confronted with mainstream opposition. This article explores the reasons behind these reactions, examining issues with credibility and cognitive dissonance.

Conspiracy Theorists vs. Mainstream Disinformation

Conspiracism, often fostered by platforms like Wikipedia, can lead to misinformation. Wikipedia, once a trusted resource, has increasingly become a breeding ground for conspiracy theories. This shift has turned it from a source of factual information to an hub of disinformation. Similarly, channels like National Geographic and the History Channel, while offering fascinating content, can be seen as biased sources by those who seek a less controlled narrative of history. However, the reality is that these channels can often present only half of the picture, leading to skewed views and conspiratorial thinking.

Religious Extremism and Self-Worth

Religious extremists, such as extreme right-wing Christians, become particularly upset when met with opposition from atheists, agnostics, free-thinkers, Muslims, or others. This heightened sensitivity arises from their deeply rooted beliefs and the self-worth that is tied to their religious convictions. When challenged, they feel as though their beliefs are under attack, leading to emotional and often hostile responses.

Confronting Absurd Theories with Facts

Mockery of absurd theories—those that run counter to well-established fact—is common. For example, addressing a “flat-earther” with the multiple pieces of data that show the Earth's spheroid shape is met with resistance. Even irrefutable evidence, such as the collapse of the Twin Towers in 9/11, which has a substantial body of evidence supporting it, is often dismissed with the dismissive label of a conspiracy theory. In the case of the Twin Towers, well-established facts about the quick and intense collapse of the buildings are ignored in favor of a simpler, albeit false, story.

Cognitive Dissonance and Defensiveness

Those who subscribe to unsupported or pseudo-scientific theories often do so out of a need to feel superior to others. This superiority manifesting as a sense of being in the know, leading to a refusal to relinquish the belief system, even in the face of overwhelming evidence to the contrary. Cognitive dissonance, the mental discomfort caused by holding two conflicting beliefs, plays a significant role in this response. The thought of being wrong for years on end can be too much for many to bear, leading to a rejection of the new information.

Fact-Checking and Open-Mindedness

It is essential to separate fact from fiction and to engage in fact-checking and critical thinking to combat these misconceptions. People with inquiring minds are more likely to evaluate evidence critically. However, the vast majority may feel a sense of cognitive dissonance that makes them resistant to accepting new information, especially if it contradicts long-held beliefs.

Conclusion

The strong reactions from conspiracy theorists and religious extremists when challenged are a result of a combination of factors, including a need for self-affirmation, the nature of the information presented, and the cognitive impact of conflicting beliefs. By understanding these dynamics, we can better navigate and engage with individuals who hold these beliefs, fostering a more informed society.