I've been thinking about the structural similarities between religions and conspiracy theories--the hidden agency(-cies) with their veiled machinations, uncovered by "prophets" who then dispense these revelations to their followers. I've come to the conclusion the two share so much in common that they're essentially one and the same. What is a religion but a conspiracy theory writ large, except with nonhuman agents at the top? This makes me interested in discussing the role religion has played in priming the brain for the acceptance of CTs. Thoughts?
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Feel free to reply to any comment by clicking the "Reply" button.This is the long version after studying history, sociology, and psychology concerning religion for 30 years.
Yep.
DavidLaDeau
Level 8
Jan 30, 2020
1
I think that both stem from some basic but very shabby needs, the fear of the unknown and the need to feel in control, the wish to be special having knowledge and power denied to others, and the wish to avoid personal responsibility, (if it is caused by powers beyond your control, then you can wash your hands ). And these needs are the enabled by the hard wired human preference for pattern finding, favouring positive errors over negative errors, which was once a survival mechanism built into us by nature.
Fernapple
Level 9
Jan 30, 2020
2
It all starts with biology:
[amazon.com]
skado
Level 9
Jan 29, 2020
1
Thank you! I added it to my books to get list.
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