Who Believes in Conspiracy Theories in Venezuela?

John Carey’s article, "Who Believes in Conspiracy Theories in Venezuela?” will be published in the Latin American Research Review in 2018. Conspiracy theories are central to political discourse throughout Latin America, but have not previously been studied by survey researchers. The article draws on a nationwide survey conducted in Venezuela between October 2016 and January 2017. Carey presented respondents with three conspiracy narratives unsupported by evidence — two that supported the current government and one that opposed it. 54% of Venezuelans expressed support for at least one of the narratives. Political loyalties to the government or to the opposition drive much support for conspiracy theories, but not all. The paper explores other psychological predispositions that are associated with conspiratorial beliefs.