ABSTRACT
Considering the prevalence of conspiracy beliefs, there is substantial consensus in the psychological literature that they are unlikely to be a function of pathology (Sunstein, Vermeule 2009; Oliver, Wood 2014). The implication that these beliefs could be held by almost anyone warrants careful consideration of this topic from a social psychological perspective. As aptly noted by van Prooijen and van Lange (2014: 238–9), ‘most conspiracy beliefs can be framed in terms of beliefs about how a powerful and evil outgroup meets in secret, designing a plot that is harmful to one’s in-group’. Understanding conspiracy beliefs, therefore, requires understanding of intergroup attitudes and behaviours (see Kramer and Messick 1998; Crocker et al. 1999). This chapter aims to illuminate the group processes involved in the development and endorsement of conspiracy beliefs. First, we review research on group perceptions and stereotyping, alongside its implications for conspiracy beliefs. Second, we discuss the motivational paths associated with beliefs in conspiring groups, focusing especially on the influences of fear, control and the need for recognition. Finally, we review the consequences of intergroup conspiracy beliefs.
