Conspiracy Theories

Which of the following assumptions are reasons that the theory that aliens built the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt fail the Occam's Razor test.

• Aliens are motivated to build pyramids.

• Aliens covered their tracks by making the pyramids look like they were built by humans.

• Aliens left no unambiguous signs of their presence.

• all of the above

Why do conspiracy theories spread faster these days?

• more newspapers

• the internet

• people like to gossip

What is your opinion now on conspiracy theories?

• I am not concerned at all about them

• I am less concerned by them than I was before

• I am no more or less concerned by them

• I am more concerned than before

• I am very concerned about them

What does "Cover-up" mean?

• It’s a strong and unreasonable feeling that other people don’t like you or want to harm you

• Easily persuaded to believe something

• An attempt to prevent the public from discovering information about something important

Which of the following are reasons why conspiracy theories appeal to people? (Select the three that are true.)

• Conspiracy theories give people something or someone to blame as they cope with fears, anxieties, and pain

• Conspiracy theories always have charismatic leaders.

• Conspiracy theories offer simple explanations for complicated events and phenomena

• Conspiracy theories provide people with a sense of belonging, support, and comfort

• Conspiracy theories provide effective remedies that have been kept secret

What conspiratorial characteristic does this post best exemplify?

• Belonging to a group

• Compelling narrative

• Simplifying a complex problem

• Connection to personal feelings and beliefs

What kinds of theories do spam bots spread?

• scientific theories

• new theories

• easy to understand theories

• conspiracy theories

What is a common psychological reason people believe in conspiracy theories?

• A) Desire for control and certainty

• B) Lack of education

• C) High intelligence

• D) Strong religious beliefs

Which historical event is often associated with conspiracy theories about government cover-ups?

• A) The Moon Landing

• B) The French Revolution

• C) The Industrial Revolution

• D) The Renaissance

What term describes the belief that a small group of people control world events?

• A) Globalism

• B) Elitism

• C) New World Order

• D) Democracy