How Our Views on Knowledge Shape Climate Conspiracy Beliefs

The way people view knowledge and science can greatly influence their beliefs in climate change conspiracies. This is a big deal because these conspiracy beliefs can really mess with efforts to tackle climate change. So, let's dive in and see how our views on knowledge and science play a role in all of this. First off, let's talk about epistemic beliefs. These are basically our views on how knowledge is created and what it means. They shape how we react to new information, handle conflicting evidence, and decide what to believe. Now, here's where it gets interesting: these beliefs are linked to how much we trust science, which in turn affects our beliefs in climate change conspiracies. Two studies were done to figure out this connection. The first study found that people who see climate knowledge as uncertain, rely on gut feelings about climate change, and don't think climate knowledge comes from experts or science are more likely to believe in climate conspiracies. Plus, the less they trust climate science, the more they buy into these conspiracies. It's like a domino effect. The second study tried to establish a cause-and-effect relationship between certainty beliefs and climate conspiracy beliefs. Unfortunately, it didn't work out. But that's okay, because the first study already gave us some solid insights. Now, here's a twist: political beliefs also play a role. The first study found that the link between trusting experts and science and distrusting climate science is stronger among people who identify as centrist. It's weaker among those who lean left. This is interesting because it shows that our political views can also shape how we view climate science and conspiracies. So, what's the takeaway? Well, if we want to reduce distrust in science and climate conspiracies, we might want to focus on educating people about how knowledge and science work. It's not just about teaching facts, but also about teaching people how to think critically and trust the process of science. This way, we can help more people see climate change for what it is: a real, urgent problem that needs our attention and action.