Conspiracy theories go hand-in-hand with feeling really damn lonely.
A new study from Princeton University that will be published in next month's issue of the Journal of Experimental and Social Psychology found a correlation between social exclusion and belief in conspiracy theories.
The researchers analysed 119 people, asking each to write about an past unpleasant social interaction and to rate their feelings of exclusion after the interaction, as well as 13 other emotions. They also surveyed participants about their feelings on certain popular conspiracy theories.
"We chose these particular conspiracy theories for their widespread appeal in the population," co-lead author Alin Coman said. "These three are, indeed, endorsed by a significant portion of the American population."
Researchers also conducted another part of the study where they randomly selected participants to be included in, excluded from, or given no instruction about a task. They also went through the steps of the first part of the study, only to find the same results.
Coman said that those who believe in conspiracy theories may do so to "seek meaning in their lives":
"Those who are excluded may begin to wonder why they're excluded in the first place, causing them to seek meaning in their lives. This may then lead them to endorse certain conspiracy beliefs. When you're included, it doesn't necessarily trigger the same response."
Of course, it's important to note that this is a relatively small sample size, and more research has to be done. But let's just consider how much this quote from Coman hits home:
"When developing laws, regulations, policies and programs, policymakers should worry about whether people feel excluded by their enactment. Otherwise, we may create societies that are prone to spreading inaccurate and superstitious beliefs."
(H/T Digg, The Outline)
