ARTICLES / RESEARCH PAPER
Online Conspiracy Theories and the Role of Conspiracy Influencers
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Submission date: 2025-04-03
Final revision date: 2025-05-12
Acceptance date: 2025-05-26
Publication date: 2025-05-26
Corresponding author
Stefano Lovi
Department of International Humanities and Social Sciences, University of International Studies of Rome UNINT, Via Prenestina, 1626, 00132, Roma, Italy
dot.pl 2025;(I)
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ABSTRACT
The proliferation of online conspiracy theories has significantly increased with the advent of social media, transforming niche beliefs into mainstream discussions. Conspiracy influencers play a pivotal role in amplifying these theories, leveraging platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Telegram to disseminate unverified narratives to a wide audience. This phenomenon intertwines sociological, psychological, and media aspects, reflecting a crisis of trust in public institutions. Cognitive biases such as confirmation bias and apophenia facilitate the acceptance of conspiratorial ideas, while digital environments like echo chambers and filter bubbles reinforce these beliefs. The role of conspiracy influencers, such as Cesare Sacchetti, highlights how charismatic personalities exploit the information vulnerabilities of their followers, spreading disinformation under the guise of truth. Countering conspiracy theories requires comprehensive strategies, including digital literacy, critical thinking education, and improved moderation on social platforms. Addressing the underlying social and psychological factors that fuel belief in conspiracies is crucial for mitigating their impact on public discourse.
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