CNN Data Guru Blasts Trump Over 'Dumbest' Conspiracy Theory - Yahoo
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When a data expert publicly debunks a presidential conspiracy theory, it's a live case study in how motivated reasoning and elite cue-taking keep false beliefs alive despite evidence.
Motivated ReasoningElite Cue-TakingBackfire EffectEpistemic Authority
Theory Briefing
- A CNN data analyst publicly called Trump's conspiracy theory the 'dumbest' he'd encountered, directly challenging its factual basis.
- Motivated reasoning theory explains why Trump's supporters may double down on the belief even after expert rebuttal.
- Elite cue-taking research shows presidential endorsement of fringe claims can legitimize them across large audiences regardless of evidence.