Why do educated people fall for conspiracy theories? It could be narcissism

The Conversation article presents new research by Tylor Cosgrove showing that highly educated people are just as likely to believe in conspiracy theories as those with less education, when they score high on narcissistic traits. In two studies, 660 Australian adults—from high‑school level to doctoral‑degree holders—completed questionnaires assessing grandiosity, uniqueness, and a need for cognitive closure. Participants then rated the veracity of classic conspiracies, such as the JFK assassination and false claims about Ebola. The study found that higher narcissistic scores predicted greater acceptance of misinformation, irrespective of education level. Results suggest that education does not shield those driven by psychological needs from unfounded beliefs, highlighting the need for targeted communication strategies.