Conspiracy theory
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Conspiracy Theory
A Conspiracy Theory (/kənˈspɪrəsi θɪəri/) is a proposed explanation of events or circumstances that invokes a conspiracy by sinister and powerful groups, often political in motivation, when other explanations are more probable. The term has a pejorative connotation, implying that the appeal to a conspiracy is based on prejudice or insufficient evidence.
Etymology
The term "Conspiracy Theory" originated in the mid-19th century. The word "conspiracy" comes from the Latin conspirare, meaning "to breathe together" or "to unite in purpose". The word "theory" comes from the Greek theoria, meaning "a looking at, viewing, beholding".
Related Terms
- Conspiracy (criminal): An agreement between two or more persons to commit a crime at some time in the future.
- Conspiracy (civil): An agreement between two or more persons to deceive, mislead, or defraud others of their legal rights or to gain an unfair advantage.
- Pseudoscience: A collection of beliefs or practices mistakenly regarded as being based on scientific method.
- Paranoia: An instinct or thought process believed to be heavily influenced by anxiety or fear, often to the point of delusion and irrationality.
- Confirmation bias: The tendency to search for, interpret, favor, and recall information in a way that confirms one's preexisting beliefs or hypotheses.
See Also
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