259: Why do people believe conspiracy theories?

<p>With special guest Longinus, the boys review Belhaven Scottish Ale, then discuss conspiracy theories, and why people believe them.&nbsp;</p> <p>Conspiracies are real things, but "conspiracy theory" has taken on the tinge of the tin-foil hat crazies. That's the sort of theory the boys discuss.&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>What are the components of a conspiracy theory?&nbsp;</li> <li>What benefit does it give to the believer?&nbsp;</li> <li>How is the internet involved?&nbsp;</li> </ul> <p>It's usually a shared delusion, not an individual idea. And it usually fits with some legit zeitgeist in the culture. It resonates with some subpopulations.&nbsp;</p> <p>Conspiracy theories are often irrefutable because any objection becomes evidence of the conspiracy theory. They also become part of a person's self-identity.&nbsp;</p> <p>People find a strange sense of safety and control when they believe in conspiracy theories because they have secret knowledge. They've peered behind the veil of deception.&nbsp;</p> <p>There's a feeling these days that conspiracy theories are more prominent on the political right. That is not true. Conspiracy theories are common on both ends of the political spectrum.&nbsp;</p> <p>People who believe they are out of power are more likely to believe in conspiracy theories, and that changes over the years.&nbsp;</p>