Is science failing to pass its message to people? Reasons and risks behind conspiracy theories and myths regarding COVID-19
Posted: 20 Apr 2020
Date Written: April 16, 2020
Abstract
Science could be failing to convince a significant number of people about COVID-19 scientific findings, the measures needed to be taken for fighting this pandemic and related present (e.g. social distancing), and future actions (e.g. vaccinations). There are several individual and social factors that are creating and maintaining myths and conspiracy theories. Most of those factors seem to be in play in the current pandemic, as well. The findings of the current study show that the pandemic is creating myths and conspiracy theories believed even by highly educated individuals and that such beliefs could be predictors of health-related risky behavior, such as refusing social distancing, pushing for mass gatherings for demonstrations, and refusing future vaccinations. Recommendations based on the findings and literature review for scientists (in general), educators, and mental health professionals are discussed.
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