Conspiracy theories may seem irrational – but they fulfill a basic human need.

The article emphasizes that even though conspiracy theories about COVID-19 are typically illogical and detrimental, they are not indicative of a mental health issue. Instead, these theories can be seen as attempts to safeguard one’s mental well-being. These conspiracy theories supply individuals with explanations that help them cope with the unpredictability of the situation and fulfill fundamental human needs for control, comprehension, and social connection. People are drawn to these theories because they provide a sense of cause and effect in a confusing situation, often by assigning events to deliberate actions by perceived adversaries or unreliable sources.