Conspiracy theorists don’t realize they’re on the fringe

This article discusses the phenomenon of conspiracy theorists' tendency to overestimate the prevalence of their beliefs. According to Gordon Pennycook, a cognitive psychologist, this is a result of the "false consensus effect," where individuals believe that their views and behaviors are more common than they actually are. The article highlights that conspiracy theorists often believe their beliefs are widely shared, when in reality, they are on the fringe of society. This misperception can lead to a reinforcement of their views and a reluctance to engage with opposing perspectives. The article suggests that this cognitive bias is particularly prevalent among conspiracy theorists, who may feel validated by the perceived widespread acceptance of their theories, even though the majority of the population does not share their beliefs. Understanding this dynamic is crucial in addressing the spread of misinformation and conspiracy theories in the modern information landscape.