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The role and influence of the conspiratorial narrative on the acceptance of conspiracy theories

Author

Listed:
  • Radoslav Ivančík

    (Academy of the Police Force in Bratislava, Slovakia)

  • Pavel Nečas

    (Matej Bel University in Banská Bystrica, Slovakia)

Abstract

Conspiracy theories have received considerable attention in recent times. Some people consider them the best possible explanations for certain significant social events and believe them more than official reports or explanations. This article, therefore, examines the factors influencing the acceptance of conspiracy theories, paying particular attention to the conspiratorial narrative and the influence of information ambiguity on their acceptance. Based on theoretical foundations, it analyses the relationship between conspiratorial thinking, emotional factors and distrust of official sources, authorities and institutions. The results suggest that information ambiguity is not the primary factor influencing belief in conspiracy theories, but rather the personality predispositions of individuals, their perceived threat and the degree of scepticism towards official explanations of certain events. Conspiracy thinking appears to be a stable cognitive schema resistant to rational counterarguments and often supported by emotional and social factors.

Suggested Citation

  • Radoslav Ivančík & Pavel Nečas, 2025. "The role and influence of the conspiratorial narrative on the acceptance of conspiracy theories," Entrepreneurship and Sustainability Issues, VsI Entrepreneurship and Sustainability Center, vol. 12(4), pages 158-170, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:ssi:jouesi:v:12:y:2025:i:4:p:158-170
    DOI: 10.9770/x8354649666
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. J. Eric Oliver & Thomas J. Wood, 2014. "Conspiracy Theories and the Paranoid Style(s) of Mass Opinion," American Journal of Political Science, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 58(4), pages 952-966, October.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    conspiracy theories; conspiratorial narrative; conspiratorial thinking;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • F52 - International Economics - - International Relations, National Security, and International Political Economy - - - National Security; Economic Nationalism
    • F59 - International Economics - - International Relations, National Security, and International Political Economy - - - Other
    • H56 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies - - - National Security and War
    • H59 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies - - - Other
    • K22 - Law and Economics - - Regulation and Business Law - - - Business and Securities Law

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