Why Do Conspiracy Theories Exist?

Few subjects generate as much disagreement as conspiracy theories. Some people dismiss them immediately. Others regard them as essential tools for understanding the world. Between these positions lies a more interesting question: Why do conspiracy theories exist in the first place? The answer begins with a simple observation. Conspiracies themselves are real. Whenever two or more people secretly coordinate their actions, conceal information or deliberately deceive others, a conspiracy exists. History contains many examples of secret agreements, hidden negotiations and coordinated wrongdoing. Human beings are capable of cooperation for both good and bad purposes. For that reason, it would be unreasonable…