The rabbit-hole of conspiracy theories: An analysis from the perspective of the free energy principle
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Date
2023
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Publisher
Taylor & Francis
Abstract
I investigate the underlying cognitive mechanisms and socio emotional factors behind conspiracy theory (CT) beliefs
through the lens of the Free-Energy Principle (FEP). The FEP
framework is employed to explain the emergence of CTs in
the face of cumulative uncertainties and the influence of
emotions on belief formation. The FEP account I propose
concludes that considering emotional factors, distrust of
established authorities, and the social environment, believ ing in CTs is a bounded rational choice for some individuals in
certain contexts. This explains why CT believers are resistant
to changing their views. Applying FEP to the complex human
behavior of CT belief and propagation, this paper not only
provides insights into the phenomenon but also enhances
the theoretical credence of FEP itself.
Description
Keywords
Conspiracy theories; free energy principle; bounded rationality; situated cognition; predictive processing; Bayesian theories of cognition