Hey there, I recently dug into a conversation that left me thinking about why conspiracy theories are so sticky — and how they manage to find their way into the highest levels of power and everyday life alike. It all started with a chat about the infamous Rothschild myth. Turns out, the most enduring conspiracy myths about this wealthy family aren’t rooted in reality but in centuries-old anti-Semitic tropes. You know the ones: controlling everything from wars to banking, funding both sides of every conflict, and secretly ruling the world. Only, none of that is true. But that myth continues to thrive because it offers a simple explanation for complex events, giving believers a sense of understanding and control amid chaos. What struck me isn’t just how these myths persist but why people cling to them even when facts are clear. It’s often a matter of trust — or rather, the lack of it. Many conspiracy believers feel like the establishment is lying to them constantly. When they’re told the truth, they see it as just another deception. So they seek out alternative narratives where the villains are clear, powerful, and easy to blame. Here’s where the story gets more complicated. The internet — especially platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok — has turned conspiracy theories into an industry worth millions. Influencers like Alex Jones or Candace Owens have built empires selling merchandise, supplements, and ideas that tap into this desire for answers. It’s a cycle: belief feeds into sharing, which fuels more belief, creating communities that reinforce these ideas deeply and publicly. And trying to debunk them often backfires because facts become just another part of the conspiracy puzzle. Another layer I hadn’t fully appreciated: the psychology of these theories. Conspiracy thinkers don’t just believe; many actually start to live out these beliefs. They may perform or promote these theories out of genuine conviction — sometimes even believing their own stories. Their audiences follow, often feeding into their cult-like community, making change hard. So, what can we do? Is it hopeless? Not entirely, but it starts with us. Recognizing that this isn’t just about misinformation but about human nature: our need to find patterns, our fears of chaos, and our desire for certainty. It’s also critical to engage privately, gently, with those caught in this web, rather than attacking them publicly — because that only pushes them further away. Ultimately, conspiracy theories won’t disappear overnight. They’re woven into human curiosity — a double-edged sword. But understanding their roots and how they spread helps us see through the fog a little clearer, and maybe, just maybe, slow their grip. I’d love to hear: What’s the conspiracy you’ve encountered that surprised you? Or perhaps, the one that made you pause? Post in the comments section! If you want to explore this more, the full conversation covers how social media fuels these beliefs, the profitability behind conspiracy content, and practical ways to protect yourself from misinformation. Listen to the full conversation above. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aconversationwithcarl.substack.com
