Conspiracy theorists seem to favour an intuitive thinking style – here’s why that’s important

The pros and pitfalls of this type of thinking

Darel Cookson, Senior Lecturer in Psychology, Nottingham Trent University • conversation
March 20, 2024 ~7 min

Intelligence doesn’t make you immune to conspiracy theories – it’s more about thinking style

Being smart won’t protect you from falling down conspiracy rabbit holes.

Darel Cookson, Lecturer in Psychology, Nottingham Trent University • conversation
Jan. 30, 2024 ~7 min


Why some people don't trust science – and how to change their minds

People who are suspicious of science often assume they are understand it well – and that others agree with them.

Laurence D. Hurst, Professor of Evolutionary Genetics at The Milner Centre for Evolution, University of Bath • conversation
Dec. 29, 2023 ~7 min

How conspiracy theories can affect the communities they attack – new research

Study on antisemitic conspiracy theories shows they can make groups turn inwards for support and more fearful of others.

Jenny Paterson, Assistant Professor in Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle • conversation
Dec. 4, 2023 ~7 min

How morbid curiosity can lead people to conspiracy theories

The answers lie in early human evolution.

Coltan Scrivner, Behavioral Scientist, Arizona State University • conversation
Oct. 11, 2023 ~7 min

What is most likely going on in Area 51? A national security historian explains why you won't find aliens there

You’re not allowed to visit the part of Nevada known as Area 51. That’s because it’s a top-secret government facility. But the secrecy has to do with spy planes, not space aliens.

Christopher Nichols, Professor of History, The Ohio State University • conversation
Aug. 14, 2023 ~8 min

Why people tend to believe UFOs are extraterrestrial

While UFO videos might seem compelling, they’re rarely backed up with evidence. A sociologist explains why claims of alien life gain traction through both social and mass media every few years.

Barry Markovsky, Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Sociology, University of South Carolina • conversation
July 17, 2023 ~9 min

What do astronomers say about Moon landing deniers? Batting down the conspiracy theory with an assist from the 1969 Miracle Mets

Some people incorrectly say the Moon landings didn’t happen. But the evidence – and logic – isn’t on their side.

Michael Richmond, Professor of Astronomy and Physics, Rochester Institute of Technology • conversation
July 17, 2023 ~8 min


Conspiracy theories aren't on the rise – we need to stop panicking

Fewer and fewer people believe man-made climate change is a hoax.

Magda Osman, Principal Research Associate in Basic and Applied Decision Making, Cambridge Judge Business School • conversation
June 19, 2023 ~8 min

Starseeds: psychologists on why some people think they're aliens living on Earth

We’ve spent ages learning about the people who think they’ve come from another planet, so you don’t have to.

Neil Dagnall, Reader in Applied Cognitive Psychology, Manchester Metropolitan University • conversation
March 13, 2023 ~7 min

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