COVID-19, cognitive dissonance and conspiracy theories
COVID-19, cognitive dissonance and conspiracy theories
Author(s): Mirjana P. VuksanovićSubject(s): Social Sciences, Sociology, Social development, Health and medicine and law, Social Norms / Social Control, Globalization
Published by: Српско социолошко друштво
Keywords: COVID-19;virus;health;cognitive dissonance;conspiracy theories;
Summary/Abstract: The aim of this paper is to point to the cognitive dissonance caused in people by different information about the new COVID-19 disease. The information originates from different professional and laymen sources and is often inconsistent. The fact that science itself has not entirely clarified the origin of the virus causing COVID-19, the symptoms, treatment protocols and consequences of disease, complicates the situation. Cognitive dissonance causes frustration, fear and stress, which, if prolonged, lead to health disorders. In search of a way out of cognitive ambiguity, many accept conspiracy theories as a solution to their own tensions.
Journal: Социолошки преглед
- Issue Year: 54/2020
- Issue No: 3
- Page Range: 518 - 533
- Page Count: 16
- Language: English, Serbian