The Problem:
One of the most difficult aspects of the research process is generating ideas. Because it is so difficult, there is a tendency for students to quickly settle on a topic rather than taking the time to explore ideas. For this task, you will brainstorm a few unrefined research ideas related to the psychological impact of conspiracy theories. The goal here is to generate interesting ideas, so don't worry about whether the study is feasible or not. Hopefully this assignment will give you practice brainstorming and a taste of what it is like to give yourself the freedom to muse, explore and ponder. Most beginning research students try to have "profound" ideas. Don't worry about being profound. In brainstorming, your job is to throw any and all ideas on the table, then pick the ones you like the best.

Conspiracy theories are becoming increasingly pervasive, especially with the explosion of the internet. Why do conspiracy theories emerge and persist? Some researchers argue that conspiracy theories offer an explanation for uncertain events (Melley, 2002). Others have speculated that conspiracy theories are a response to powerlessness or loss of control (Mason, 2002; McCauley & Jaques, 1979). But, do these theories actually impact attitudes or behavior? Or are they relatively harmless?

The Task:
Go to the website, www.snopes.com, and search for “conspiracy theories”. Read over a handful of the results (whatever seems interesting to you) and make note of your thoughts, feelings and reactions. Use these observations to complete the task below.

Brainstorm questions that relate to the impact conspiracy theories might have on people's thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Think of as many questions as you can. After you have exhausted all of your ideas, get a partner and talk together about your questions.  With your partner, choose three questions that seem especially interesting.

Write Up:
For each question, (a) state the general question and (b) give a brief (1-2 sentence) explanation of what specifically led you to this question. Here is a broad guideline for how to do this:

Question 1: Would exposure to conspiracy theories that involve X and Y lead a person to be more Z?

Rationale: Most of the X and Y stories contained B, which suggests that D is an important component. It would likely affect Z because…

The important thing is to trace your idea back to observations in some way. The goal is to generate interesting ideas not evaluate them. Feel free to explore other sites if you want additional information or observations.  Type up your answers to these questions (one per group) and submit it via digital dropbox (Instructions) before you leave today. Be sure all group members are listed on the assignment. This assignment will be graded (√-,√,√+)

Suggestions:
Consider the strategies discussed by Pelham and Blanton (pp. 45-50).  Think about concepts or theories from other psychology classes that might explain why or how conspiracy theories could influence behavior or attitudes.