A moderated mediation model: the role of Need for Cognitive Closure in the relation between System Justification and Conspiracy Beliefs

Need for Cognitive Closure is a personal preference for predictability and intolerance towards uncertainty. Conspiracy theories offer simple solutions to complex issues, providing explanations for events that do not have clear dynamics. Features of conspiracy theories make them attractive to people high in Need for Cognitive Closure. There are personal characteristics that increase the likelihood of conspiracy theories’ endorsement. The present study tested a moderated mediation model, highlighting the role of Need for Cognitive Closure (NfCC) as a moderator in the relationship between System Justification (SJ) and General Conspiracy Beliefs (GCBs), which resulted as a media- tor in the relationship between System Justification and Specific Conspiracy Beliefs (SCBs)/Intention. We observed a moderation effect of Need for Cognitive Closure in the relationship between General Conspiracy Beliefs and Specific Conspiracy Beliefs/Intenton. Conspiracy priming showed a strong effect on SCBs/Intention compared to anti-conspiracy priming and the combination of the two kinds of priming.