Conspiracy theories and disinformation can influence how people form opinions and interpret information. They can lead to increasingly aggressive debates and even social division – ultimately damaging our coexistence and posing serious risks to democracy:
Those who want to undermine trust in politics and democracy exploit existing fears and controversial issues, add their own narratives, and spread them further. This leads to polarization and manipulation, sparks new conflicts, and ultimately weakens social cohesion.
Conspiracy theories and disinformation often build on existing prejudices and are deliberately targeted at political fringe groups. These groups usually adopt them uncritically and spread them further via social media. In this way, conspiracy theories and disinformation reach into the center of society and influence public discourse.
Triggers for radicalization can include personal identity crises or the search for validation, community, and orientation. Extremists try to exploit this by offering seemingly meaningful answers and pushing their own political views. Especially individuals can radicalize unnoticed online under the influence of conspiracy theories and disinformation. The risks associated with this process can pose a threat to our security.
