Conspiracy Mentality Versus Belief in Conspiracy Theories

Abstract

In this research spotlight, we respond to Nera’s (2024 , this issue) critique of the conspiracy mentality. We agree that the concept of the conspiracy mentality – and its relation to belief in conspiracy theories – requires further clarification. We also agree that the causal relationship between conspiracy mentality and belief in conspiracy theories may be bidirectional. We elaborate on these arguments by adding additional critical points and providing recommendations for researchers. We see the chief value of the construct as making it possible to tease apart (e.g., in covariance analyses) belief in conspiracy theories from the political attitudes that underlie them.