CONSPIRACY THEORIES

Conspiracy Theories

Conspiracy Theories

Introduction

From the end of World War II to the present, the proliferation of conspiracy theories has been a prominent part of American culture, contributing to the polarization of society while undermining confidence in public leaders. Often based on partial truths, conspiracy theories have ranged from suspected communist plots during the Cold War to suggestions that the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, were carried out by sinister elements within the federal government (Farber & Foner 1994). In this essay, I explore the rise of conspiracy theories that are offered as explanations for the assassinations of the great ...