https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/05/180530154457.htm > Joseph A. Vitriol, a postdoctoral research associate at Lehigh, and a co-author on both of the studies, says: "The current political moment is one of volatility and major social change, including increased cultural and ethnic diversity and widespread collective action among members of previously marginalized groups, who are effectively challenging the status quo and seeking change in public policy and political discourse." > He adds, "For many members of the public, particularly individuals who have benefited from existing social and political arrangements, these developments and changes are quite threatening and can motivate compensatory endorsement of conspiracy beliefs or theories."