Introduction

This part introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters. The part examines the impact of conspiracy theories in society and politics and, in turn, the impact of society and politics on the construction and dissemination of conspiracy theories. It provides an overview of the development of antisemitism as a conspiracist tradition, from the high medieval period to the present. The part explains some of the variety of relations between conspiracy theory and religion, looking through the lens of conspiracy theories as, about, and in religion. Conspiracy theories can be highly political, and their framing often comes from ideas around power and authority. For instance, conspiracy theories may ascribe hidden socio-political power and ambition to an outgroup, or they can be used to undermine the integrity of authorities. As counternarratives, conspiracy theories are usually rooted in distrust, defiance and even a desire to destabilise reigning powers.