Conspiracy and Power

Conspiracy and Power by Donatella Di Cesare delves into the realm of conspiracy theories, arguing that they are neither delusions nor lies, neither simplistic fallacies nor psychological quirks. Instead, Di Cesare contends that they present a political problem, focusing more on power than truth. Rather than dismissing conspiracy theories as creations of fringe groups and cranks, she offers an original perspective, portraying conspiracy as the spectre of a shattered community.

With the widespread proliferation of conspiracy theories, a pervasive suspicion replaces the trust in politics and politicians. Questions arise: Who is behind the scenes? Who is pulling the strings? In a world that appears increasingly confusing and unreadable, the belief emerges that there must be a hidden side—a secret realm of the Deep State and the New World Order—where plans are crafted, information is collected, and thoughts are controlled. It is no longer about a singular plot or intrigue. Conspiracy becomes the manner in which citizens, feeling powerless before a relentless techno-economic juggernaut and manipulated by an anonymous power, relate to the world. Consequently, conspiracy exposes the void within democracy and reveals itself as a formidable weapon of mass depoliticisation.