2.4.4. Information
Information performs a function similar to that of knowledge. But both the quantity and quality of information are related to beliefs in conspiracy theories. In terms of the quantity, information related to a conspiracy theory reinforces beliefs in that theory. For example, Swami et al. [17] show that beliefs in conspiracies about 9/11 are positively related to exposure to the ideas of 9/11 conspiracists. In terms of quality, more elaborate information decreases beliefs in conspiracies. For example, more news media literacy is shown to reduce conspiracy theory endorsement [65].
It is not only the quantity and quality of information but also the style of information processing that influences beliefs in conspiracy theories. A conspiratorial mentality may partly reflect particular information-processing dispositions [29]. Thus, individuals’ engagement in seeking or finding meanings or patterns in ambiguous or random information may be related to conspiratorial thinking.
Hypothesis 15 (H15).   More qualitative and quantitative information is negatively associated with beliefs in conspiracy theories.