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Conspiracy Theories and Miracles.

  • Published In: Social Research, 2025, v. 92, n. 1. P. 97 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Margalit, Avishai; Sharon, Assaf 3 of 3

Abstract

Conspiracy theories exhibit a paranoid epistemology—assuming intrigue and cover-up for which there can be no evidence, rather than seeking evidence to establish suspicion. A form of collective rationalization, they derive their appeal not from their explanatory power, but from their emotional and existential benefits. Like miracles, conspiracy theories are not failed attempts at genuine explanation, but the corruption of explanation masquerading as explanation. Thus, the standard liberal recipe—greater openness and better access to information—might exacerbate the problem rather than ameliorate it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additional Information

  • Source:Social Research. 2025/03, Vol. 92, Issue 1, p97
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:History
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0037-783X
  • DOI:10.1353/sor.2025.a956288
  • Accession Number:184329124
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Social Research is the property of Johns Hopkins University Press and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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