From Beliefs to Acts: Understanding the Catalysts of Conspiracy-Inspired Violence CE Credit Request Form

Conspiracy theory beliefs can serve as motivations for a range of problematic non-normative political actions, including behaviors that violate social norms, such as violence against others, illegal protests, road blockades, and property damage. Furthermore, these beliefs often fuel violent actions targeted at specific groups, such as Jewish people and Muslim immigrants. Alarmingly, many recent terrorist attackers have referenced conspiracy theories in their manifestos. It is, therefore, paramount that we seek to understand how and when conspiracy beliefs could be associated with violent extremism.

 

In this session, I will delve into research from my team and others exploring the links between conspiracy beliefs and violence. We will discuss factors that may drive conspiracy-evoked extremism, such as feelings of loneliness, alongside considering when the links between conspiracy beliefs and extremism may be strengthened (e.g., when upholding specific ideologies or individual characteristics). Although the contributing factors are diverse and interventions tricky to develop, we will also discuss ways that we can approach addressing conspiracy-inspired violence.