Open this photo in gallery: A Qanon believer speaks to a crowd of President Donald Trump supporters outside of the Maricopa County Recorder's Office in Phoenix, Az., on Nov. 5, 2020.Dario Lopez-MIlls/The Associated Press Conspiracy theories describe what adherents believe to be secret plots by powerful and malevolent groups to control, impoverish or harm hard-working people. Many conspiracy theorists share the conviction that information is being concealed from them by “elites” or “the deep state.” Belief in conspiracy theories is widespread and harmful. They can significantly affect people’s lives and are largely driven by negative emotions. In the following column,...