Routledge The Social Psychology of Gullibility: Conspiracy Theories, Fake News and Irrational Beliefs (Sydney Symposium of Social Psychology)

Gullibility, whether we like it or not, is a fundamental characteristic of human beings. In The Social Psychology of Gullibility, Forgas and Baumeister explore what we know about the causes, functions, and consequences of gullibility, and the social psychological processes that promote or inhibit it. With contributions from leading international researchers, the book reveals what social and cognitive psychology contribute to our understanding of how human judgments and decisions can be distorted and undermined. The chapters discuss the nature and functions of gullibility, the role of cognitive processes in gullibility, the influence of emotion and motivation on gullibility, and social and cultural aspects of gullibility. Underpinned by a wealth of empirical research, contributors explore captivating issues such as the psychology of conspiracy theories, the role of political gullibility, gullibility in science, the role of the internet in fostering gullibility, and the failures of reasoning that contribute to human credulity. Gullibility has become a dominant topic of interest in public discourse. The Social Psychology of Gullibility is essential reading for researchers, social science students, professionals and practitioners and all those interested in understanding human credulity and the role of gullibility in contemporary public affairs. Review "This volume gives credibility and status to gullibility by pulling authors from a variety of theoretical and empirical traditions into a common goal: to explore the evolutionary, historical, and dispositional parameters of, as well as situational influences on, gullibility, delineate its consequences for individuals and public life, and generate proposals for correction. This is an indispensable volume for seasoned and fledging researchers alike." Constantine Sedikides, Professor and Director, Center for Research on Self and Identity, University of Southampton, UK About the Author Joseph P. Forgas is Scientia Professor at the University of New South Wales. His research focuses on cognitive and affective processes in interpersonal behavior. For his work he received the Order of Australia, and the Distinguished Scientific Contribution Award from the Australian Psychological Society. Roy F. Baumeister is Professor of Psychology at the University of Queensland. His research deals with self and identity, self-control and self-esteem, finding meaning in life, sexuality, gender, aggression and emotion. He received the William James Award from the Association for Psychological Science for his lifetime achievements.