Поширення конспірологічних теорій як інституційний фактор динаміки формальних правил

Abstract

The article is aimed at determining the consequences of manipulation with conspiracy theories for the dynamics of the current formal rules and measures to prevent such manipulation. It is identified that four groups of factors can be allocated to determine the suitability of conspiracy theories common in society for exploitation by manipulator players in their own interests, namely: number of group members that believe in the appropriate conspiracy theory; dependence of the degree of concern of supporters of conspiracy theories on the norms of the current legislation; non-contradiction of the institutional changes, desired for supporters of conspiracy theories, to the interests of influential interested groups; opportunity to accuse a political opponent of participating in a conspiracy. It is specified that the only group of manipulator players, which always has the opportunity to take advantage of common conspiracy theories in society, are the opportunist players. It is concluded that the most effective of the mentioned in the article are the measures to increase the education of society. Due to the improvement of the quality of the overall component of education and the formation of a broad outlook of members of society, critical attitude to dubious assertions and baseless accusations of opponents produced by numerous opportunist players is formed, and thus less favorable conditions for the spread of conspiracy theories are created. However, these measures are also characterized by a significant disadvantage, which significantly limits the prospects for their application – a high level of costs associated with the implementation, and the reluctance of employers to pay for «unnecessary» education of employees.