How belief in conspiracy theories could harm sustainability

Abstract

Previous research and theorizing have overwhelmingly focused on the psychological underpinnings of conspiracy beliefs. Here we examine what conspiracy beliefs imply for attitudes and behaviours relevant for the social, environmental and economic dimensions of sustainability. We propose that conspiracy beliefs mostly contribute negatively to sustainability, either by reducing sustainable attitudes and behaviours or by justifying (and thereby reinforcing) people’s existing unsustainable attitudes and behaviours. Specifically, conspiracy beliefs are mostly associated with reduced public health and well-being, weakened social cohesion and deteriorated basic human rights (social sustainability); with lower support for reducing carbon emissions, investing in clean energy sources and preserving delicate ecosystems (environmental sustainability); and with reduced trust and cooperation, diminished support for technological innovation and increased harm to the international relationships necessary for fair trade (economic sustainability). However, most studies supporting these relationships were conducted in western democratic societies, underscoring a need for more cross-cultural research on these issues.