Conspiracy Theories, Schizotypy, & Dark Triad Traits | What is a Conspiracist?

This video answers the questions: What is a conspiracist? Is there a relationship between belief in conspiracy theories, the Dark Triad Traits, and schizotypy?
There is no single agreed-upon definition for a conspiracy belief, which makes studying the phenomenon somewhat difficult. Here are two definitions that appear in the research?
1. The unnecessary assumption of conspiracy when other explanations are more probable.
2. An unverified and relatively implausible allegation of conspiracy, claiming that significant events are the result of a secret plot carried out by a preternaturally sinister and powerful group of people.
Over 50% of Americans believe in at least one conspiracy theory.
March E, Springer J (2019) Belief in conspiracy theories: The predictive role of schizotypy, Machiavellianism, and primary psychopathy. PLoS ONE 14(12): e0225964.
doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone....
Brotherton, R., French, C. C., & Pickering, A. D. (2013). Measuring belief in conspiracy theories: The Generic Conspiracist Beliefs scale. Frontiers in Psychology, 4. Retrieved from search.ebscohost.com.mylibrary...
van Prooijen, J.-W. (2019). An existential threat model of conspiracy theories. European Psychologist. doi-org.mylibrary.wilmu.edu/1...
Oliver, J. E., & Wood, T. J. (2014). Conspiracy Theories and the Paranoid Style(s) of Mass Opinion. American Journal of Political Science (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.), 58(4), 952-966. doi-org.mylibrary.wilmu.edu/1...
Klein, C., Clutton, P., & Dunn, A. G. (2019). Pathways to conspiracy: The social and linguistic precursors of involvement in Reddit’s conspiracy theory forum. PLoS ONE, 14(11), 1-23. doi-org.mylibrary.wilmu.edu/1...
Dagnall, N., Denovan, A., Drinkwater, K., Parker, A., & Clough, P. (2017). Statistical Bias and Endorsement of Conspiracy Theories. Applied Cognitive Psychology, 31(4), 368-378. doi-org.mylibrary.wilmu.edu/1...
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[@AnimalsMatterMorally]

" You can't have the lizards and humans both in control, right?" Ohhhhh but why not, Dr. Grande, whyyyy notttt!! 😂😂😂

[@JohnSmith-vy4lh]

I think this guy is getting confused between a conspiracy and a conspiracy theory.

[@angelahamon6730]

Dr Grande was not able to supress his laughter on that one

[@natashamudford4011]

Who says lizards and evil people can't work together?

[@cynthiaschell7246]

I say they can't (because lizards like to eat humans)

[@waltertheartist2746]

IKR?!

[@0dious]

@@cynthiaschell7246 but humans like to eat dogs, and yet they still cooperate...

[@onuktav]

Only evil people and lizard people who are working together would say that. Do you really think they would not try to cover up their insidious pact? Hello?

[@jeremywvarietyofviewpoints3104]

@@0dious and vice versa.

[@amarok5048]

1984 was a warning, not an instruction manual

[@maricamaas5555]

Predictive Programming

[@bojanglesfries]

Based.

[@wordup897]

@@maricamaas5555 Yep, Orwell and Huxley were in on the long game. So are hollyweird writers and producers. It's not primarily about entertainment and money, it's about social engineering and programming. “I think the subject which will be of most importance politically is mass psychology... Its importance has been enormously increased by the growth of modern methods of propaganda. Of these the most influential is what is called 'education.' Religion plays a part, though a diminishing one; the press, the cinema, and the radio play an increasing part.... Although this science will be diligently studied, it will be rigidly confined to the governing class. The populace will not be allowed to know how its convictions are generated … It may be hoped that in time anybody will be able to persuade anybody of anything if he can catch the patient young and is provided by the State with money and equipment.” -Bertrand Russell, “The Impact of Science on Society” See also Edward Bernays, nephew of Freud.

[@MR-rk4xj]

The problem with applying a term like "conspiracy theorist", as stated on this video, is that it literally doesn't mean anything. To decide someone's belief in a conspiracy as being "irrational" , or is not based on solid evidence, falls into the category of subjective interpretation most often. An observer who is analyzing someone's belief in a conspiracy would have to objectively gather evidence themselves, objectively decide if there is any merit to the theory, and then objectively decide if a conspiracy could possibly exist. This involves actual research, the ability to evaluate evidence and other research objectively (not everyone has these particular skills), and then decide if if the conspiracy is still "irrational"- which is still subjective. There is an enormous amount of self discipline involved in the process of investigating someone's conspiracy, and the individual conducting the investigation can easily contaminate their own investigation by things like: their own pride, pre-conceived notions, lack of ability to sift through information correctly, self desire etc. The split between what is actually subjective and objective is also up to interpretation. There are many mysterious things in this world, and the most complex and mysterious of them all is no-doubt the human mind itself, which is why I enjoy this channel. The truth of anything is not at-all is not dependent upon any human mind understanding that truth. A person who believes in a seemingly bizarre conspiracy, but does not have the tools to properly explain their reasoning, does not negate the truth by their own shortcomings. A person's inability to properly analyze another person's conspiracy belief, neither proves or disproves the truth of anything by itself. Most often, I see terms being applied such as "conspiracy theorist", as nothing but social leverage. It is an easy way to cause many people ignore a subject by playing on their desire to "fit in". The truth of anything is not dependent on anyone's abilities, beliefs, non-beliefs, understandings, mis-education or literally anything. Terms like "conspiracy theorist" or even "fake news" blur the line between truth, and the many inherent shortcomings of any human being. I enjoy this channel because of it's rational insight. I spent 30 years of my life battling mental illness, and the last 3 years refusing any and all psychotropic medication. The last 3 years of my life have been the the healthiest I have ever been, and I am getting my mind back like I only dreamed was possible. Psychotropic drugs are probably the cause of many mental disorders themselves, but some would call that a conspiracy theory.

[@misschievous5071]

Absolutely perfectly stated! Bravo!

[@anonymouspeacefulperson6199]

KLM NOP Vienna doorman police, I have just read a book about the therapist who took 9 people to a spa retreat for therapy. Liane Moriarty’s book. The therapist Masha, Ludwig, Dick and dianne, got put in prison for supplying drugs in the smoothie drinks of the clients without their knowledge or permission! It was LSD, rogypnol, cannabis and other drugs altering the mind and cognitive abilities and skills of the clients! She paid her friends to administer the drugs to the clients in secret, as her stupidity and theories about mind altering drugs helping people with therapy! Most of the clients were feeling sick and worse than they did before experiencing pain, high blood pressure, dizziness, headache and low blood sugar, numbness of limbs, hair loss, hangovers during the working afternoon and stomach issues! The character Heather Graham really had a go at Masha for this! Jesse J and Ben were really physically ill!

[@NewNormalWorldOrder]

“Conspiracy theorist” is an ad hominem character assassination.

[@bojanglesfries]

Good that you are refusing psychotropic meds. I have never been prescribed them myself, but they can mess with people's heads a lot

[@wordup897]

The entire pharma / allopath industry is a sham cooked up by 'philanthropist' JD Rockefeller, turning petroleum into highly lucrative poisons.

[@scurvofpcp]

One thing that I do like about conspiracy theorists is that while they may take things to some odd places, they do make some insightful observations and occasionally bring up some concerns that should be given the light of day. Like the whole Epstein thing, yeah we could just out and out call that a conspiracy theory but ya know, when looking at the evidence ...or conspicuous lack of evidence (the dog that did not bark, anyone?) it does seem kinda narrow to not at least consider the possibility that someone in a house full of murders somehow ended....murdered, especially when we add to it that there was some people of considerable power and means who would be greatly protected by his lack of testimony.

[@catspajamas2961]

The idea that Epstein did not kill himself is definitely a conspiracy theory, but that doesn't mean it's false. Conspiracy theory refers to rational thinking about a possible plan between 2 or more people to carry out an illegal or harmful act. It does not mean fake or false.

[@Beowulf-wt3kb]

And then there’s some who say he was taken away to be in hiding, to continue his nefarious work. I’m not interested in politics and I never had anything against Hillary since I don’t know much about any of them, but it does seem strange how many people have died close to the Clintons. Just doesn’t make sense to me though because I don’t have strong feelings of hatred or liking any of them. I may be a conspiracist just in that I’m interested in finding out about all these different things, but it doesn’t mean I believe them all. I believe that they’re all possible, but I don’t live my life around them.

[@scurvofpcp]

@@Beowulf-wt3kb I've heard that one and... well to put things in perspective, before Epstein 'suicided' himself, people were making memes about his upcoming suicide. Once something enters the category of predictability well... it is kinda hard to dismiss it as just happenstance at that point.

[@catspajamas2961]

Ludlow 889 That's not exactly a secret. I'm pointing out the accurate definition because the re-purposed one is being used to denigrate those who seek to expose coverups. With this inaccurate use of those words, anyone questioning any "official" story is automatically branded as fake and crazy. It's a sinister effort. I'm going to point it out from time to time. Sorry if that bothers you.

[@catspajamas2961]

@ludlow 889 I noticed that about the official 9/11 story also. And some people's response to that will be, "That's not a conspiracy theory. It's true." At which point I give up, lol.

[@charliecharlton9782]

Thankful for this. I had a relationship with someone who turned out to be schizotypal. It was truly weird. He saw signs in everything and had wild imaginings that he believed in with great awe until he was assured they were not real.

[@ambraleopardi1366]

Same here 🙂

[@swiftie16bit]

"Plotting to make ice cream more available right...." Ya no there are vegan theories too lol. As milk is usually heavily subsidized.

[@0dious]

Lizard people hate milk, because you know, reptiles think mammals are gross.

[@ilkkarautio2449]

If i had a huge lizard, i would give him ice cream as a treat to test if hes plotting or not. 🤔

[@johncloois3301]

@@ilkkarautio2449 That sounds dirty. Ok, sorry. 🤣

[@ilkkarautio2449]

@@johncloois3301 I love huge lizards, and giving treats but i will not tolerate plotting against me. 🤔😡

[@johncloois3301]

@@ilkkarautio2449 guess it is the apocalypse soon, huh?

[@Jwcounseling]

I have this disorder, however all my theories keep coming true. 😊

[@estebandiaz2772]

Name one. Also, are they really YOUR theories? If not, you fit the narcissism criteria a little bit lol

[@Sikhindu]

tehehe, man, the i told you so is so painful i don't even say it at all. I just moved on and let people suffer not listening to me.

[@109x3]

One thing I've found interesting in recent years is how drastically people's lives change when they laugh off & dismiss a conspiracy theory only to be confronted with irrefutable proof that it genuinely was & is true, the Bolshevik revolution for example

[@Hakasedess]

The 1917 revolution hasn't ever been deemed a "conspiracy theory", to my knowledge It's a pretty well known and discussed historical event

[@Dhuuum]

Thanks for all your videos, Dr. Grande! Can you do one on Bob Lazar - the physicist who claims to have worked at Area 51 S4? Would be really curious to see your opinion/analysis on that!

[@blurrylights6344]

Just fyi, Bob Lazar is not a physicist. While he claimed to have a master's degree in physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, that institution itself has publicly stated that he was never a student /degree recipient. He made these claims in 1989 and technically he said he worked at a secret location called "S-4" near Area 51 but he was never employed by the U.S. Air Force either. Just another run of the mill hoax that hasn't been raised by him in 30 years. He was legally required to get counseling as part of a plea bargain in 1990 for some criminal matter unrelated to his claims, so maybe it was effective. He appears to have lived a fairly quiet life running a business with his wife since then. I guess I'm curious why you think he would be a good subject but to each their own.

[@blurrylights6344]

@M Z I find your question kind of puzzling. Are you asking how else could he have this knowledge and since he does he must be a physicist from MIT as he claimed?

[@m1lkb0n3z]

I'm a physicist (my research specialty was quantum optics), and was interested in what Bob Lazar might have to say. He was interviewed on a recent documentary on Netflix, and gave an explanation of the anti-gravity propulsion system which he said was used in the alien spacecraft he studied at Papoose Lake. His explanation was not obvious techno-babble, as you would get in a Star Trek episode, and was sort of self-consistent. After it was over, I spent some time thinking about his explanation and realized that he hadn't actually explained anything. I won't go over the physics because it would be too lengthy, and, as Kris Craft has explained below, it seems his purported credentials cannot be verified. Instead, I'd direct you to Jimmy Akin's video on the subject. Akin has a series which treats many odd phenomena from the perspectives of both faith and reason. I like his approach because he doesn't just dismiss such things, but tries to give the ideas fair consideration. Here's his video on Bob Lazar: kzbin.info/www/bejne/poXJgH6rrauJatE

[@blurrylights6344]

@@m1lkb0n3z Thanks for the link. I listened to the first half and will listen to the rest later. It is, as you said, a fair and well-rounded discussion. I also used their link to an essay by a particle physicist refuting Lazar's claims about physics which was also very informative even to me as a layperson. Thanks again. I enjoyed it.

[@NewNormalWorldOrder]

You know how I know Bob Lazar is a JOKE? Primarily because he has a real voice and is allowed on Joe Rogaine’s podcast.

[@cheatednomore6430]

Hi Dr. Grande, Happy belated New Year! Love your topics and really enjoyed your videos since I subscribed to your channel last year. I know someone who feels very out of control in his own life & it seems his only real refuge is conspiracy theories. These beliefs make him feel more comfortable. Mind you, he is not thrilled with what reality presents, which is, the link, I feel, that has made conspiracy theories more palatable to him, as they present alternative realities, to his one disagreeable reality. Also, I believe these theories serve as an abatement to boredom, of the state of mundaneness he experiences, when having to deal with actual reality every day. At first, I figured, that I might be able to help him, because most of the theories are very apocalyptic, and he seems distressed. Well, I am thinking that he is kind of addicted to the distress, as in, atleast he knows that the conspiracy theories always have that particular effect on him. The idea of object consistency, (the state of being in distress) if that makes sense, comes to mind. In a roundabout way, the distress is comforting to him. He does not have any interest in stopping thinking the way he does. I think he actually finds it a bit exhilarating and again, as I stated, somewhat comforting.

[@storyteller0111]

Dr. Grande, I thank you for your efforts to cover up the fact that we are ruling the world. - Grandmaster of the european chapter of The Order of Reptilian Illiminati, Draxius Sinisteri

[@golightly5121]

Or Satanists for short.

[@tanyalewellenray]

🤣

[@janza9178]

Now they need a doctor to define conspyracies to dimish the events 🤦‍♀️

[@BooksAndShitButNotLiterally]

I see the lizard thing as a metaphor for psychopathy. It's pretty clear that psychopathic people tend to filter to the top of hierarchies.

[@justinlavine9209]

Wut about the Dodecadoomdron of Denial and Despair ? Or, the Hexatype of Hyperhellsent Heresy ? Try yourself on a Naughty Nanonarcissitic Negative Nelly? Just finished oiling up my giant lizard steed and ready to mount up and charge into the marshy underworld as an elven dark moon mage knight with all mah magical thinking. It's a big saddle and I got room for one more, adventurer. Need a ride on my finely tanned, all leather saddle? Oops, spilled a little over brewed potion of potency on my pantaloons here. Hope you brought a change of slickly polished bat hide chaps... Lmao. I like this guy from what little I've seen of him.

[@justinmadrid8712]

Lol. The overwhelming majority of serious "conspiracy theorists" do not believe in lizard people.

[@chiefkeef8936]

​@@justinmadrid8712we all have a reptile part of the brain, ironically it's the pineal that's a part of it... also called the third eye, so can see why they took it to such a weird place

[@xagon2012]

Happy new year, Dr. Grande. :-)

[@marquislexil]

Wouldn't being purely conventionalist be unhealthy too? I would think some doubt would be more healthy than no doubt ever.

[@catspajamas2961]

Exactly. I would think believing everything you hear on tv or read in the newspaper is pretty naive. People who get huge amounts of information from conventional sources such as textbooks, professional journals, tv and mainstream sites start to think they know "everything" and get kind of self satisfied. They can't look into alternative information because it might shatter the worldview they've spent so much time and effort constructing. It's too psychologically expensive for them to learn something that contradicts their belief structure.

[@marquislexil]

@@catspajamas2961 yes, that was my thoughts exactly. I just wanted to make sure I wasn't the only one

[@drmantistoboggan2870]

Just found your channel thanks to bob the science guy. Im immediately hooked, especially because I can listen to this while working. 10/10 stuff mate

[@jc1865]

Dr. Grande - a question if I may. What is the difference between belief in the supernatural and religious/spiritual beliefs? Are they all sort of related to magical thinking to that a higher power is on the side of the believer?

[@sr2291]

What is "the Supernatural"?

[@debraanchante3661]

Dr. Grande, thank you for your videos. They are very helpful to people like me who are being abused by a narcissist/psychopath.. I have a real question. Is it possible for a narc/psycho to also be schizoid? My narc has a lot of those characteristics too. Just trying to know what exactly I am dealing with. I need help.

[@debraanchante3661]

Anarcho Frills thank you. I definitely will look her up. I guess in the long run it doesn’t really matter what the exact diagnosis would be.. it just really sucks living with him.. and I’m pretty much stuck since he has control over everything in my life. I’ve worked so hard all my life and if I leave I’ll literally be leaving with nothing at all.. I’m trying to figure out how I can at least keep the things I had before I married him so I don’t start with nothing

[@amatacook]

An interesting topic for a video could be this: Can a person who is high in the dark triad become high in the light triad?

[@zone66]

Good point. Where there is dark is also potential to much light

[@justinmadrid8712]

Linking "conspiracy theorists" to the 'Dark Triad' is nothing but a cheap ad hominem attack. It takes just as much narcissism to believe that the 'mainstream' account of things cannot possibly be wrong. I have had countless discussions with 'anti-conspiracists'. They are often the most narcissistic people I have ever met. They will say things like, "You are stupid for believing the government would lie to us" or, "you don't understand X like I do."

[@Em0killer13]

The lines between "critical thinkers" and "conspiracy theorists" has been blurred so much the past few years.

[@annapomelo3818]

Dear Dr. Grande, can you share your thoughts about child abuse and child murder? I wonder what kind of people are doing this and why in many cases of child abuse human bite marks were found on the child`s body. It is so cruel and strange at the same time... Thank you!

[@russianpow7242]

@Ed Ducate so you’re crazy, huh?

[@3Mores]

To conspire means to breath together.

[@wendyleeconnelly2939]

so meditation is a conspiracy

[@deanpd3402]

@@wendyleeconnelly2939 it is actually. It's a conspiracy to get people to believe they can be "as gods."

[@kiyonahthundersong828]

You are so cool and excellent, Dr. Grande. I feel smarter and more insightful after every one of your videos.

[@SuperEvilC]

They're watching through your smartphone and your smart TV. Ohhh that's crazy talk lol

[@tuck-brainwks-eutent-hidva1098]

Zuckerberg covers the camera on his own laptop. Just sayin'.... ☻

[@SuperEvilC]

@@tuck-brainwks-eutent-hidva1098 Bingo! So does another therapist I know personally.

[@SuperEvilC]

@@tuck-brainwks-eutent-hidva1098 Some use to talk down to me and gaslight me for telling them about this. And now our police departments are actually coming out of the closets and asking private citizens to "sign up" to give them permission to legally "tap" the citizens WiFi to use their home security systems to monitor the public. Conspiracy Facts

[@tuck-brainwks-eutent-hidva1098]

@@SuperEvilC Yes -- I think it's unhelpful to live in a state of anxiety, regardless of the cause, but I do not subscribe to the old platitude "ignorance is bliss"! Our worldviews are shaped by all kinds of experiences; my early ones taught me that the world is a dangerous place -- and that God is good!

[@smilingontime]

...for coming full circle these vids always feel like theyre going in circles

[@PlanetDeLaTourette]

Mental disorder is the best cover a CIA can wish for.

[@maricamaas5555]

Drugging the population comes close second.

[@catspajamas2961]

When people change the definition of conspiracy from the accurate "2 or more people secretly planning an illegal or harmful action" to "a false or made up story" and then use their inaccurate definition to denigrate people who research conspiracy theories, is that gaslighting?

[@golightly5121]

cat's pajamas : yes

[@catspajamas2961]

IcouldBeWrong ICouldBeRight The first thing they would do would be to link conspiracy theorising with mental ilness. Hmm.

[@Hakasedess]

No, it's called "clarifying one's definitions", and is a useful tool when approaching a subject in a systematic way. You'd realize this if you rubbed your 2 remaining brain cells together for but a moment.

[@catspajamas2961]

@@Hakasedess That is one of the craziest things I've ever heard in my life. Day is night and night is day? Hey, I'm just clarifying my definitions! smh

[@Hakasedess]

@@catspajamas2961 Yeah, it's actually stupid to make sure everyone is talking about the same thing

[@BobtheScienceGuy]

Good discussion

[@matts.689]

I see the date this video was posted, and man, you really hit the nail on the head with a bunch of these (elections, vaccinations, etc).

[@lucieni]

@2:29 greta thunberg ‘phenomenon’.

[@realmontana6838]

It’s so crazy when I look up John Todd this video comes up… even when I search his name conspiracy theorist pops up along with it… he talked about witching in the music industry now his name is scrubbed from KZbin smh

[@waltertheartist2746]

Whew I was worried someone just started ww3 glad I can rely on my schizotypy for guidance!

[@edwardjones4572]

MK Ultra, Project Mockingbird, particular aspects of 9/11. It takes a certain level of narrow-minded to associate things that have documented evidence and written explanation in the umbrella of “conspiracy theory”. Next, I’d like you do a video on the psychology of people who don’t question things, and succor entirely to the authoritative voices of the day... I appreciate the more basic things you have to share - your analysis of personality disorders and what-not. However, this feels like terrain you should probably revisit if you want to publish videos on the topic...

[@justinmadrid8712]

Don't forget that the term "conspiracy theory" was literally created by the government to discredit and smear people who believed (knew) that JFK was killed by the government.

[@jennykirwin3288]

Dr Grande Is this related to the Mandela effect? Please let me know your thoughts on this belief?

[@universe2198]

I needed this , I see a lot of people talking about this . Excellent information. 👍🏻

[@rexremedy1733]

Those are not Lizards. Those are human lizard hybrids! So both are in control technically. :-)

[@golightly5121]

Seed of the serpent born to Eve, children of Cain.

[@rexremedy1733]

Go Lightly i am not a Lizard Human Hybrid. I am not seed of serpent! I am not!

[@golightly5121]

Rex Remedy : not you, the controlling ELite.

[@HumanimalChannel]

As always...Interesting AND soothing

[@cacaPoopTrain]

Me: * * argues with conspiracy theorist. * * Conspiracy theorist: “dO yOuR REaSeaRcH!!!!!”

[@AMM3.]

I believe Dr Grande is conducting a conspiracy to ruin my electronic devices by having me snort laughter and spit out food and drink... I'm on to you Dr Grande! 🤔

[@funkknob]

Psychology of religious belief video please!

I would love to see you diagnose the character Dale Gribble from _King of the Hill_ - assuming that you haven't, yet

[@okuradani]

Better access to ice cream! I love your wonderful deadpan humor! The thing between the bad Humans and the bad Lizardpeople (there must be good Lizzies) is just an intramural struggle for ultimate power. The winner will kick ass until the next villain comes along in our imagination or in reality, which tend to converge.

[@muffinspuffinsEE]

Building 7 didnt kill itself :p

[@s.w.9936]

Midnight treat ☺️

[@Seemashe]

Dr Grande - please can you do an episode about Frank Abagnale and his personality. He is more than fascinating.

[@amatacook]

I have an interesting topic for a video: Can an individual who is high in dark triad traits move to being high in light triad traits, and vice versa?

[@natashamudford4011]

Light triad traits... like giggling, humming, and blowing bubbles...

[@amatacook]

Natasha Mudford Nah. There is a real construct in psychology known as the light triad. There’s a very interesting article on it in Scientific American.

[@natashamudford4011]

@@amatacook What are they?

[@natashamudford4011]

@@brusselsprout5851 Alright already.... you inspired me to go look it up. Never heard of the term Kantianism before. I only read a chart which broke down the 3 different aspects into four sub-categories, and they all seemed admirable. Even if it is a relatively new theory, it can still be worthwhile. Something doesn't have to be old to be valuable... I mean after all, look at Freud. (Old, not really valuable!)

[@natashamudford4011]

That would be an interesting subject for him to cover. I bet a person with DID might be able to do that.

[@edwardjones4572]

“Looking at the online forums we see that some conspiracists will argue in favor of a conspiracy theory, but that same individual will argue against other conspiracy theories, so in a sense, they’re only a conspiracist looking at certain theories - they’re a conventionalist it’s looking at other theories.” Or perhaps people are capable of some degree of nuance in their thinking, and can agree with certain ideas and disagree with others...

[@justinlavine9209]

Dr. Grande omits from consideration a 'criminal conspiracy' which is an investigator's or prosecutor's hypothesis. Criminal conspiracy can be defined as any attempted criminal act presumed to be committed by multiple perpetrators who have come to a premeditated agreement. This 3rd definition, drawn from criminal justice, is actually fairly common and makes me wonder why a psychologist is attempting to analyze a topic, fad, or trend. In other words, if the "conspiracy theories" discussed in this video are a topic or fad, how can a psychologist scientifically analyze this in the absence of an individual conspiracy theorist to study? I ask because I was under the impression that psychologists study the behaviors and thought processes of individuals. In other words, Dr. Grande is attempting to analyze something better studied by sociologists or anthropologists. This kind of unscientific thinking and obvious bias is one reason why I don't trust Dr. Grande's analysis. The other reason being that he is obviously an alien clone working for the Illuminati to establish a New World Order (NWO)with John Cena! Watch "Conspiracy Theories, Schizotypy, & Dark Triad Traits | What is a Conspiracist?" on KZbin

[@gwendolynn7314]

You said being a Conspiracy Theorist could be dangerous when it comes to vaccinations. You might want to check out the Amish people 🤔

[@MultiCappie]

Am I a conspiracy theorist for thinking "ice cream might actually be evil and some people are trying to make it more available?"

[@jasonmullinder]

If you have been watching videos on the health concerns related to sugar it would make perfect sense and doesn't require nefarious lizard psychics when the money is taken into account

[@KeKKi]

A conspiracy can consist of two people conspiring towards a mutual goal.

[@justinlavine9209]

Dr. Grande omits from consideration a 'criminal conspiracy' which is an investigator's or prosecutor's hypothesis. Criminal conspiracy can be defined as any attempted criminal act presumed to be committed by multiple perpetrators who have come to a premeditated agreement. This 3rd definition, drawn from criminal justice, is actually fairly common and makes me wonder why a psychologist is attempting to analyze a topic, fad, or trend. In other words, if the "conspiracy theories" discussed in this video are a topic or fad, how can a psychologist scientifically analyze this in the absence of an individual conspiracy theorist to study? I ask because I was under the impression that psychologists study the behaviors and thought processes of individuals. In other words, Dr. Grande is attempting to analyze something better studied by sociologists or anthropologists. This kind of unscientific thinking and obvious bias is one reason why I don't trust Dr. Grande's analysis. The other reason being that he is obviously an alien clone working for the Illuminati to establish a New World Order with John Cena.43es

[@verdantpulse5185]

It seems there could be a link between conspiricy thinking and pareidolia. Each seems a outgrowth of the idea , 'if something is there, it's because soreone's behind it'. One is that there is an active plan behind a series of actions, one is that there is an actor hidden in a pattern. Both are agueably useful suspicions on an evolutionary level; people live in societies, it is good to be able to see others, and many aspects of society are run by people. But I could see poor damping of that suspicion leading to both conspiricism and seeing faces where they are not.

[@jasonmullinder]

A lot of conspiracy material i've seen is overloaded with references that take too long to analyze and verify, let alone put into context, so it's easy to see why people just keep reading and allow confirmation bias to guide them

[@Beowulf-wt3kb]

Video idea. Can you evaluate yourself? You’re one of the most calm cool collected and almost un-human like deliverer of information. Of course you may be gregarious away from the video, but it certainly hard to imagine. How do you evaluate or diagnose yourself Dr. Grande?

[@justinlavine9209]

If he doesn't have a health problem, why would he diagnose or evaluate himself? Also, he might not be trained as any kind of medical professional.

[@justinmadrid8712]

Regarding your first 'factor'. A conspiracy is inherently 'nefarious'. A conspiracy is defined as a "secret plan to do something unlawful or harmful". I am not sure why you felt the need to point out that conspiracies are never innocent, as your first of three 'factors'. Regarding your second 'factor': Obviously someone who believes a conspiracy theory believes that their explanation is the most logical. The same can be said for someone who believes a 'mainstream' narrative. Also, the reason a disagreeable person is more likely to believe in a conspiracy theory, is because they are typically the only type of person who would actually be willing to look into them _with an open mind._ A more agreeable person will often not even imagine considering the _possibility_ that a conspiracy theory could possibly be true. For example, they might think, "There is no way the government or mainstream media would ever lie to me about a significant event." 'Odd thinking' and 'magical beliefs' type people are of course going to believe in anything that is seemingly bizarre or outlandish. You must be careful not lump all 'conspiracy theorists' in with them. Believing in conspiracy theories is not demonstrated to have anything to do with "wanting to have control over what you believe." This is nothing but baseless speculation. In my opinion, I suspect that the people who say this are just trying to discredit 'conspiracy theorists', and/or trying to make themselves appear more reasonable and intellectually superior. Allow me to explain the _real_ reason so many people believe in conspiracy theories. The reason is simple: Throughout history, there have been many "confirmed" conspiracies." The one that opened my eyes the most was Operation Northwoods. This was when the CIA and the US military planned to board a commercial airplane with CIA agents, fly the plane below radar, swap it with an identical looking remotely controlled plane, then suicide plane, then falsely blame terrorists, in order to justify invading Cuba. The FBI would then step in and "verify" all of these false events. A 'non-conspiracists' biggest flaw is simply discrediting 'conspiracy theorists' without actually hearing out their arguments in a good faith, charitable manner.

[@mariagrace817]

Idk I truly appreciate how you discuss the natural doubt of government and the probability of corruption in general do not count as conspiracy theory since it is not only plausible but more than not it is common today. I also thank you for taking time to explain the difference between the tinfoil hat conspiracy theorists and the growing interest in or the possibility of certain conspiracies.

[@Melissa0774]

Dr. Grande, are you a professor or do you just practice as a psychologist?

[@DrGrande]

I am an associate professor and a counselor educator (not a psychologist). I teach students who want to be counselors.

[@Melissa0774]

@@DrGrande Did you ever practice as a counselor yourself? If so, for how long?

[@nickchannel5364]

Conspiracy theories appear in the literary canon. Like the aside Marlowe makes about the Scot who believes there are men on Mars. When pressed he would mutter something about walking on all fours.

[@KnutFan]

curious how you recommend engaging w/these people? Like say, in a work environment, not necessarily in a therapeautic setting?

[@justinlavine9209]

Dr. Grande omits from consideration a 'criminal conspiracy' which is an investigator's or prosecutor's hypothesis. Criminal conspiracy can be defined as any attempted criminal act presumed to be committed by multiple perpetrators who have come to a premeditated agreement. This 3rd definition, drawn from criminal justice, is actually fairly common and makes me wonder why a psychologist is attempting to analyze a topic, fad, or trend. In other words, if the "conspiracy theories" discussed in this video are a topic or fad, how can a psychologist scientifically analyze this in the absence of an individual conspiracy theorist to study? I ask because I was under the impression that psychologists study the behaviors and thought processes of individuals. In other words, Dr. Grande is attempting to analyze something better studied by sociologists or anthropologists. This kind of unscientific thinking and obvious bias is one reason why I don't trust Dr. Grande's analysis. The other reason being that he is obviously an alien clone working for the Illuminati to establish a New World Order (NWO)with John Cena! Watch "Conspiracy Theories, Schizotypy, & Dark Triad Traits | What is a Conspiracist?" on KZbin

[@smilingontime]

No fear here. No tears this year.

[@JuanRamirez-jm9bp]

Thanks for this video and the references!

[@phyllis9750]

When your conspiracy is PROVEN WRONG in court???

[@scarlettchappendenden9059]

Hey Doc., Star wars is real.....right?!! x

[@Logan-kh8bi]

Man they got you too? Damn.

[@glassbackdiy3949]

Interesting, seems non conclusive though. On the subject of 'conspiracy theorists' rather than an easy target like the David Icke video you did, it'd be far more interesting if you took a look at someone I'd call a conspiracy fact-ist, someone who is always well researched and whos work is well referenced, someone like James Corbett, from the Corbett report here on youtube.

[@catspajamas2961]

David Icke is probably more the actual point than an example.

[@jeremyhopkins8707]

If I am ever brought up on a conspiracy charge, I am going to call you as a witness for my defense..

[@UFOLLOWINME]

So which video is it?

[@freedommascot]

I don’t know ‘bout that-I think the narcissist with their magical thinking, delusional self-concept and anger mixed with paranoia is quite capable of subscribing to a conspiracy theory or two!

[@marquislexil]

Only if they create it

[@jodis3783]

@Freedommascot I agree. Judging by how many narcissists there are in the "truther movement," I'd say that narcs are especially drawn to conspiracy theories. Anything that gives them a platform to control others AND believe that they are morally or intellectually superior than everyone else will be very attractive to narcs.

[@marquislexil]

@@jodis3783 there's a difference between clinical narcissist and someone with a narcissistic personality. I think you two are conflating those

[@jodis3783]

@@marquislexil I know the difference. There are plenty of both in the truther movement. Narcissists (NPD) tend to promote trait narcissism in others, or perhaps it was already there to begin with. Either way, there are tons of narcs, both clinical and trait, in truther movements.

[@marquislexil]

@@jodis3783 I would agree but also say that they wouldn't be just some random. They would raise to the ranks of having one of the loudest and most followed voices. But, in saying this i also stick to what I said before. Because they aren't actually in the movement/theory itself. As in believing in it or caring. They use it for attention. Unless it's their own.

[@nobodyimportant4778]

I'm surprised this isn't brought up: what about the DESIRE to believe in the theory and willingness to construct a cognitive dissonance at their own detriment to protect it? Would this not improve the accuracy of the description?

[@justinlavine9209]

Dr. Grande omits from consideration a 'criminal conspiracy' which is an investigator's or prosecutor's hypothesis. Criminal conspiracy can be defined as any attempted criminal act presumed to be committed by multiple perpetrators who have come to a premeditated agreement. This 3rd definition, drawn from criminal justice, is actually fairly common and makes me wonder why a psychologist is attempting to analyze a topic, fad, or trend. In other words, if the "conspiracy theories" discussed in this video are a topic or fad, how can a psychologist scientifically analyze this in the absence of an individual conspiracy theorist to study? I ask because I was under the impression that psychologists study the behaviors and thought processes of individuals. In other words, Dr. Grande is attempting to analyze something better studied by sociologists or anthropologists. This kind of unscientific thinking and obvious bias is one reason why I don't trust Dr. Grande's analysis. The other reason being that he is obviously an alien clone working for the Illuminati to establish a New World Order (NWO)with John Cena! Watch "Conspiracy Theories, Schizotypy, & Dark Triad Traits | What is a Conspiracist?" on KZbin

[@EgaoKage]

Unfortunately the waters grow even murkier when we factor in the way in which the terms "conspiracy" and "conspiracy theorist" are weaponized as a counter-argument to pretty much any point that would be inconvenient to the interests of the counter-arguer (or to the interests of those they represent), if they were widely believed; valid, or otherwise.. I tend to agree with George Carlin on the topic of certain types of so-called conspiracy theories.

[@dfnuniverse2198]

8:59 AND THAT’S WERE YOU ARE WRONG DR. GRANDE 😜🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤓😁

[@AnimalsMatterMorally]

I think vulnerable narcissism fits right in to believe conspiracy theories because of the inherent deflection of personal responsibility for one's own failings. I knew a vulnerable narc who believed everyone in the world but herself was responsible for her own failings and she blamed some things on implausible conspiracies holding her back. So I wonder why there is such a lack of connection in the research literature...

[@justinlavine9209]

Dr. Grande omits from consideration a 'criminal conspiracy' which is an investigator's or prosecutor's hypothesis. Criminal conspiracy can be defined as any attempted criminal act presumed to be committed by multiple perpetrators who have come to a premeditated agreement. This 3rd definition, drawn from criminal justice, is actually fairly common and makes me wonder why a psychologist is attempting to analyze a topic, fad, or trend. In other words, if the "conspiracy theories" discussed in this video are a topic or fad, how can a psychologist scientifically analyze this in the absence of an individual conspiracy theorist to study? I ask because I was under the impression that psychologists study the behaviors and thought processes of individuals. In other words, Dr. Grande is attempting to analyze something better studied by sociologists or anthropologists. This kind of unscientific thinking and obvious bias is one reason why I don't trust Dr. Grande's analysis. The other reason being that he is obviously an alien clone working for the Illuminati to establish a New World Order (NWO)with John Cena! Watch "Conspiracy Theories, Schizotypy, & Dark Triad Traits | What is a Conspiracist?" on KZbin

[@Genesis10Conspiracy]

Most conspiracies have been proven true.

[@amarok5048]

Half of the world's population's IQ is below average

[@shadrach6299]

Genesis 10 Conspiracy They certainly have not been proven to be true.

[@shadrach6299]

M Z Yes it does

[@mypillowguy445]

List them...

[@Genesis10Conspiracy]

@@mypillowguy445 911 HAS BEEN USED TO TAKE AWAY AMERICAN'S FREEDOMS. THIS WAS A SETUP.

[@robertcuthill8484]

DR. Grande On the flip side of the coin what do you make of people who spend a lot of their time (almost to the point of obsession) debunking conspiracy theorists on social media? It seems they are just as bad and only keeping the ball rolling , so to speak.

[@OneLine122]

Given that conspiracy theories are odd beliefs, the relationship between the two is tautological. For the others, it probably has to do with a sense of lack of personal responsibility in events. Magical thinking in that sense is obvious, its about believing some things are done without direct physical agency. Thoughts themselves become agents, so the will of some people also have some unexplained consequences. So it is a natural fit. For the callous people, it may have to do with the habit of blaming others for one's own actions and therefore avoid guilt or accusations. Charles Manson was a master in that regard, and it gave the impression of being a teflon, at least in an argument as he would turn any personal responsibility in some global design that in the end absolved him from blame and where he was but a victim. In the end though, it is all about believing some things are out of your control, but that some others do control it, and they are to blame. So it is probably mostly about blame shifting, or simply looking into details others don't look into for the more benign theories (those that simply involve denying a consensus).

[@Costello77]

Eddy Bravo

[@maarten7]

I'm assuming that a conspiracy theorist can also be a narcissist (independently of each other in the same person.) (???)

[@saraacarolina]

Yeah I think it all depends on what you do with the information you believe.

[@ilkkarautio2449]

I kinda disagree with the part about all conspiracy theories being of sinister nature. 🤔 Like that theory about sinbad destroying every copy of that genie movie he was in. And theories like that pop up all the time.

[@fedmcglowie7240]

The fact that some people seek agency in everything doesn't rubbish the entire concept. A number of years ago I found my mam watching CNN and there had recently been an attempt on the life of then-president of Venezuela Maduro (can't remember his first name). In any case, the people on CNN were suggesting that Maduro had used a drone to attack himself, thereby justifying a crackdown on the opposition. Personally, I can see the logic here because it's not something that's never happened in real life. However, if this sort of allegation (essentially one of corruption) was made against a NATO member or ally, it would without a doubt be seen as a conspiracy theory by those same talking heads on CNN or any other mainstream news outlet in the western world. What I'm trying to say here is even though this type of thinking is often pathological, that doesn't mean it's always untrue and that stereotype of the conspiracy theorist seems very useful to any corrupt actors in the politics of the West.

[@bojanglesfries]

The only conspiracy theories I believe in involve rich elites not committing suicide and the Mandela effect being caused by alternate dimensions. Oh, and forest stairs.

[@judeannethecandorchannel2153]

I think you may be too quick to dismiss some of these theories.

[@budawang77]

I'm not convinced there is no link with narcissism. Surely you have to be quite arrogant and grandiose to dismiss the work of thousands of scientists on climate change for example. You have to believe that you have special insight which eludes all these experts. That sounds quite narcissistic. Sam Vaknin believes there is a link.

[@XingFisher666]

And what if it's distrust of what the media presents to you as scientific evidence?

[@budawang77]

@@XingFisher666 I suppose that's a possibility in some cases and would imply paranoia rather than grandiosity. It's easier to justify mistrust of the media than scientists, however most deniers claim they do understand the science and are not reliant on the media for their understanding. As a side note, there is a great need for the scientific community to communicate better and directly with the general population.

[@Xandros999]

I think one should look at the cognitive grains of sand that grow into great and mystical pearls. Every conspiracy theory starts with "knowing better". You've found a simple explanation for something that other people don't get. Why don't they?

[@justinlavine9209]

Dr. Grande omits from consideration a 'criminal conspiracy' which is an investigator's or prosecutor's hypothesis. Criminal conspiracy can be defined as any attempted criminal act presumed to be committed by multiple perpetrators who have come to a premeditated agreement. This 3rd definition, drawn from criminal justice, is actually fairly common and makes me wonder why a psychologist is attempting to analyze a topic, fad, or trend. In other words, if the "conspiracy theories" discussed in this video are a topic or fad, how can a psychologist scientifically analyze this in the absence of an individual conspiracy theorist to study? I ask because I was under the impression that psychologists study the behaviors and thought processes of individuals. In other words, Dr. Grande is attempting to analyze something better studied by sociologists or anthropologists. This kind of unscientific thinking and obvious bias is one reason why I don't trust Dr. Grande's analysis. The other reason being that he is obviously an alien clone working for the Illuminati to establish a New World Order (NWO)with John Cena! Watch "Conspiracy Theories, Schizotypy, & Dark Triad Traits | What is a Conspiracist?" on KZbin

[@mrs.reluctant4095]

"Hmmmm, Dr. Grande made a video about conspiracists... I will probably not like it. I never liked these kind of vids of him too much. He's quite hostile against people who contemplate about the state their societies are in.... Everybody's mentally ill in his eyes, I think.... let's watch it first....!" 🐰 ...watches... 😊 I like it.💗

[@mrsupersadface]

Most people are mentally ill. It's also human to worry about your circumstances. So it stands to reason that many if not most people will worry in unhealthy ways about the state of their world.

[@dannyj77dj]

I actually hated this video, I feel as though hes really sold out, hes become your typical slavery shcolar, simping for the ruling class, I expected more from this guy, as hes pretty insightful at times :)

[@justinlavine9209]

Wut about the Dodecadoomdron of Darkness and Despair ? Or, the Hexatype of Hyperhellsent Heresy ? Try yourself on a Naughty Nanonarcissitic Negative Nelly? Just finished oiling up my giant lizard steed and ready to mount up and charge into the marshy underworld as an elven dark moon mage knight with all mah magical thinking. It's a big saddle and I got room for one more, adventurer. Need a ride on my finely tanned, all leather saddle. Oops, spilled a little over brewed potion of potency on my pantaloons here. Hope you brought a change of slickly polished bat hide chaps... Lmao. I like this guy from what little I've seen of him.

[@Shakey719]

Comments disabled in 3...2...1...: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r6amkGejfLmmb5o

[@davidtichborne2912]

What do you think of smoking cannabis in the house with kids in there I think it's awful it's exspoing your children to very addictive and possibly risky substances not that my mom ever seemed to care or maybe exstreemly unegcated

[@CharlesMarlow1898]

It's a well know fact that the Earth is flat.

[@jeanettewaverly2590]

Charles Marlow Of course, but is that a conspiracy theory?

[@CharlesMarlow1898]

@@jeanettewaverly2590 It's a pseudoscientific belief that's often, althought not always, accompanied by conspiracy theory, meow.🐈

[@sr2291]

What is the "paranormal"?

[@angela3chapman]

I'm a Conventionalist, but don't get me wrong, I've gone down many rabbit holes. The thing is, sometimes there is reality interwoven in a circumstance that appear preternatural. Like the time I took a road trip and got chased out of Texas by Hurricane Harvey, chased out of Florida by Hurricane Irma, and chased out of Louisiana by Nate. So I went to California, and chose Paradise California. Eight months later, we escaped the tragic fire there on 11/08/18. Trust me, in the past three years I've done a lot of self reflection. Am I a bad person that brought destruction? No, it only confirms that one must consider the season one travels in the South. Oh, and that climate change is real.

[@justinlavine9209]

Dr. Grande omits from consideration a 'criminal conspiracy' which is an investigator's or prosecutor's hypothesis. Criminal conspiracy can be defined as any attempted criminal act presumed to be committed by multiple perpetrators who have come to a premeditated agreement. This 3rd definition, drawn from criminal justice, is actually fairly common and makes me wonder why a psychologist is attempting to analyze a topic, fad, or trend. In other words, if the "conspiracy theories" discussed in this video are a topic or fad, how can a psychologist scientifically analyze this in the absence of an individual conspiracy theorist to study? I ask because I was under the impression that psychologists study the behaviors and thought processes of individuals. In other words, Dr. Grande is attempting to analyze something better studied by sociologists or anthropologists. This kind of unscientific thinking and obvious bias is one reason why I don't trust Dr. Grande's analysis. The other reason being that he is obviously an alien clone working for the Illuminati to establish a New World Order with John Cena.3ws

[@mochajoe2880]

DR GRANDE! Your involved? I thought I could trust you.

[@dondada1538]

You need help

[@tedthecommenter5364]

you actually need help, you thinking everyone who questions your beliefs is apart of an organization that is out to hurt you is not healthy

[@KeKKi]

Shouldn't we be talking about psychopaths/sociopaths/narcissists etc eventually ruling us? Their view of us, the people.

[@golightly5121]

I have a conspiracy fact disorder. (anger issues)

[@TheWorstThingEver]

And exactly where was Dr. Todd on November 22, 1963?

[@TheWorstThingEver]

@ludlow 889 Ah, the old "He wasn't born yet" excuse. How convenient.

[@rexxthunder]

Look up the channel Super Soldier Talk if you want to see this in action.

[@rexremedy1733]

A conspiracist is someone who believes that conspiracies are real. A conspiracicist is someone who practices.

[@malabuha]

What about the Santa conspiracy 😂😂 to this day i cant decide is Santa real or not.. haha

[@darksoul479]

Santa Claus is real, don't let anyone tell you different.

[@jeanettewaverly2590]

Love of music Santa is real and he is a conspiracy theorist.

[@m.g.9656]

The conspiricy of stupidity ; the biggest conspiricy in the world, believe me!

[@grahamfinlayson-fife73]

9:00 The secret society IS the lizard people!

[@smilingontime]

...trying to claim

[@peggygenoway]

Chem trails, FEMA camps, holographic human projections, the Project Monarch, Area 51...I love it all. I have a fondness for sci fi.

[@tuck-brainwks-eutent-hidva1098]

It's interesting how much of our "sci" was, at one time, "sci fi," eh? Keep thinking beyond the known! 👽

[@manictiger]

The rfid chips really got me questioning this little hell they're trying to make. I used to think it was a very silly notion, yet here they are, talking about injectable circuits and rfid chips "to monitor your health". A woman on a conference (TED talk?) said "we can make sure they take their medications". It's right up there with assassin microdrone swarms, in terms of things that are both truly disturbing and also very within the reach of this overly centralized power structure. They have many times proven they don't value human life. They've deliberately targeted orphanages and hospitals in Iraq before (the stuff we're vilifying the Russians for). So, yeah, I don't trust them with anything. I don't go to government-sponsored gun "buybacks", because I did a background check on the buyer and found that they had a history of violence and weren't of mentally sound mind.