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Do Cognitive Abilities and Rationality Protect Against Susceptibility to Epistemically Unwarranted Beliefs?
Background and research problem. The prevalence of epistemically unwarranted beliefs makes it critically important to study human cognitive capacities to resist indoctrination by pseudoscientific, conspiracist, and paranormal doctrines. The research problem addressed the question of whether cognitive abilities and rationality protect against susceptibility to epistemically unwarranted beliefs. Objective. To present a theoretical analysis of contemporary empirical studies examining the role of cognitive abilities (intelligence and creativity) and rational-intuitive thinking styles in the formation of epistemically unwarranted beliefs. Methods. A non-systematic theoretical review of the scientific literature using narrative analysis and synthesis. Literature searches were conducted in major scientific databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, and PsycINFO. Sources were included if they presented empirical data and provided detailed descriptions of their methodological procedures. Results. Empirical evidence indicates weak to moderate negative correlations between intelligence and epistemically unwarranted beliefs, although some studies find no association, and in exceptional cases, the relationship may be negative. The relationship between creativity and such beliefs is inconsistent: creativity may help avoid rapid stereotypical evaluations of epistemically questionable ideas, yet may also increase vulnerability to them in the absence of criticality. A tendency toward rational thinking style generally serves as a negative predictor of belief in pseudoscience and conspiracy theories, though its relationship with paranormal beliefs is often absent. These patterns vary depending on methodological and contextual differences across studies. A tendency toward intuitive thinking style constitutes a consistent risk factor that increases the likelihood of accepting irrational ideas and forming epistemically unwarranted beliefs. Conclusion. Cognitive abilities and rationality do not guarantee protection against indoctrination. Nevertheless, intelligence and rational thinking style can be beneficial in specific situations when individuals encounter epistemically unwarranted ideas and doctrines, provided they suppress intuitive impulses and evaluations and sufficiently engage intelligence as a mental resource.