The Paradox of Conspiracy Theory: The Positive Impact of Beliefs in Conspiracy Theories on Preventive Actions and Vaccination Intentions during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Jaesun Wang,Seoyong Kim

doi:10.3390/ijerph182211825

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the direct and indirect impact of beliefs in conspiracy theories on COVID-19-related preventive actions and vaccination intentions. The dominant theory in the literature is that beliefs in conspiracy theories have negative consequences. In particular, strong beliefs in conspiracy theories lower people’s intentions to engage in preventive actions and get vaccinated. Previous studies indicated that this dominant theory applies in Korea as well. However, we find that this dominant theory does not apply in Korea. Based on an analysis of survey data, we find that beliefs in conspiracy theories have positive impact on preventive actions and vaccination intentions. In addition, beliefs in conspiracy theories play indirect roles in these two responses to COVID-19. Specifically, when perceived benefits and trust in the government or science enhance preventive actions or increase vaccination intentions, strong beliefs in conspiracy theories promote this effect. This positive role of conspiracy theories is paradoxical because they are generally viewed as negative.

Highlights

As COVID-19 spreads, a wide variety of conspiracy theories are spreading as well.Lynas [1] lists the following ten conspiracy theories related to COVID-19: “5G is spreadingCOVID-19”, “Bill Gates is behind the spread of COVID-19”, “the virus escaped from a Chinese lab”, “COVID-19 was created as a biological weapon”, “the US military importedCOVID-19 into China”, “COVID-19 doesn’t exist”, “the pandemic is being manipulated by the ‘deep state’ of America’s elite”, “COVID-19 is a plot by Big Pharma”, and “COVID death rates are inflated”
To analyze key variables measured in the survey, such as preventive actions, vaccination intentions, and beliefs in conspiracy theories, we derive the average values for each major demographic variable and conduct analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests
Our study found that beliefs in conspiracy theories have increased COVID-19 preventive actions and vaccination intentions

Summary

Introduction

Lynas [1] lists the following ten conspiracy theories related to COVID-19: “5G is spreading. COVID-19 into China”, “COVID-19 doesn’t exist”, “the pandemic is being manipulated by the ‘deep state’ of America’s elite”, “COVID-19 is a plot by Big Pharma”, and “COVID death rates are inflated”. These conspiracy theories contradict common sense and have negative connotations about leaders’ use of their power. These theories focus on the causes rather than the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Oliver and Wood [2]

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Conclusion