Conspiracy theories are born because of the emptiness created by everything that is unknown and unexplained. However, what distinguishes conspiracy theory from a simple alternative explanation is the existence of an "evil plan, organized by a secret and small group of individuals." According to him, every conspiracy theory has three basic elements - a conspiracy, a plan and a goal of mass manipulation. If we look at what level of conspiracy is necessary for everything to be secret, then we come to the necessity of the existence of someone who actually controls and organizes it all.
The belief that the world can be controlled is a very powerful driver of conspiracy theories in times of crisis, when there is no explanation for certain phenomena. The corona virus pandemic has slowed or completely stopped many economic and social activities, but not the production of (dis) information. The media and digital platforms were flooded with "discoveries" about the new virus, and citizens became increasingly confused by different and often contradictory data. The so-called "conspiracy theories" have become a hit on social networks, and on the other hand, neither some domestic media, nor political officials and other public figures have resisted to get involved in their transmission and promotion.
The corona pandemic has given rise to a number of theories, from the way the virus originated - whether naturally or in a laboratory in Wuhan, through its spread via the 5G network, to the ultimate goal - inventing a vaccine to chip American billionaire Bill Gates.
Unverified and fabricated information went so far that Instagram started deleting posts regarding the 5G network, while the internet giant YouTube removed and banned all posts regarding the treatment of the corona, which was not confirmed by the World Health Organization.
Such theories are very easy to remember and fit into the already existing system of prejudices, so they are easily retold and upgraded. Faced with a large amount of misinformation and the constant spread of panic from tabloid and political circles, citizens try to calm the feeling of uncertainty by finding any answer, and then they become easy prey for conspiracy theorists.
Because it is easier to believe in any answer than in the fact that there are no answers to many questions of existential importance at the moment. Conspiracy theories are currently accepted among people for two reasons, the first is that people sit at home and have too much free time, and the second is that they feel important when they share a story like this on Facebook or in a Viber group, with a comment like "People, "open your eyes!", "what are they doing to us!" Conspiracy theories can sometimes be interesting in moments of leisure, but in such delicate moments they are extremely dangerous. Sources:
dw.com
danas.rs
