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How do conspiracy theories affect public trust in democratic institutions?
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conspiracy theory
U.S. Pres. John F. Kennedy and first lady Jacqueline Kennedy minutes before the president was assassinated in Dallas, November 22, 1963.
Conspiracy theories can erode public trust in democratic institutions by promoting suspicion and rejecting official narratives. When people believe in conspiracies, they may become less interested in political participation and distrust figures in power. This distrust can be amplified by the spread of disinformation through social media and AI-generated content. Periods of anxiety and hardship often see an increase in conspiracy theories, further challenging the stability of democratic governments. This alienation can lead to declining voter turnout and increased admiration for autocratic leaders.123