Cognition and Conspiracy Theories

This Element deals with the relationship between cognition, understood as the process of acquiring and developing knowledge, and diverse types of conspiracy theories, or short, 'CTs'. Section 1 lays the groundwork for the analysis by determining four components of narrative argumentative framing in CTs, of which the first three are constitutive for all CTs, with a fourth representing the 'optional' collective action-guiding "scenario" component. Section 2 exemplifies manifestations of these components by discussing contemporary and historical 'hoax' and 'asserting' CTs and 'empowering' CTs. Section 3 takes a cognitive-evolutionist and pragmatic view at the conditions for the 'success' of CT scenarios. In conclusion. Section 4 formulates lessons for countering the effects of socially detrimental CTs by deconstructing them and by obstructing their dissemination.

List of contents

1. Introduction: what makes conspiracy theories attractive to know?; 2. How do CTs function?; 3. What makes CTs 'successful'?¿aspe; 4. How can CTs be countered?; References.

Product details

• Authors: Andreas Musolff, Andreas (University of East Anglia) Musolff
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press ELT
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 31.12.2025
• EAN: 9781009660631
• ISBN: 978-1-0-0966063-1
• No. of pages: 86
• Series: Elements in Cognitive Linguistics
• Subjects: Humanities, art, music > Linguistics and literary studies > Other languages / Other literatures; Non-fiction book > Psychology, esoterics, spirituality, anthroposophy > Psychology: general, reference works; LANGUAGE ARTS & DISCIPLINES / Linguistics / General, Psycholinguistics, Cognitive studies, Cognitive Science, Psycholinguistics and cognitive linguistics, Cognitivism, cognitive theory