why are conspiracy theories so popular?

[nailit]

Are they akin to religious belief? For example David Icke 'preaches' to sell out crowds of thousands about reptile rulers with no more evidence for this than followers of God (in whatever shape or form) have for their belief. Conversely, religions have always had their own conspiricy theories, eg: satan is decieving humanity.
Conspiricy theorists and religionists seem very much the same to me as they both like to think that they are privy to information which is hidden from the rest of mankind without any substantial proof to back up their claims.

[dickythecook]

There is a secret Gov. Dept. that keeps track of all the conspiracy theories and all the people that believe them. I know this to be true 'cos somebody who knew someone else told me in confidence. Apparently they monitor all forms of communication 24/7. Then when they find somebody telling the truth about it, they go round and disappear them. That is a fact!! Hang on, there's someone at the door

[jomifl]

Belivers and conspiracy theorists are the opposite ends of the spectrum. Believers believe, anything, conspirationists believe nothing.

[Mick-Talbot]

the question is

why are conspiracy theories so popular?

I repeat they are not.

search 'conspiracy theories' in the search bar and you only get 40 results, most searches fill result in the full 50.

for instance try searching ... 'sex' see what you get lol '

[nailit]

Point taken Mick, maybe not THAT popular.
Thanks for replies. Must admit that I do like jomifl's answer "Believers believe, anything, conspirationists believe nothing." Sounds good to me.