Originally posted by FabianFnas
If I want to discuss the phenomenon why some people of today, and especially in USA, has such a strong inclination to believe in various conspiracies, like chemtrails presented in this thread, and the psychology that lies behind - is this forum a place for this kind of discussion?
I don't know how profitable a discussion on conspiracy theories would be, actually, since the origin of the phrase only dates back to the 1960's and its originator wasn't a medical group or any other scientific organization whose notes and data could be analyzed independently in order to verify the veracity of the designation... or application.
When the CIA coined the phrase, it was with the express purpose of discrediting any idea, individual or group which challenged or questioned the 'official story' or any other government operative narrative.
They needed something subjective but weighted with enough latent negative connotation which would render the conversation over prior to discussing merit of any kind.
As long as people have gathered in groups, there has been speculation as to motivations and actions emanating from authorities.
In an open, democratically elected government, transparency has been more in demand, thus the need for even more covert undertakings by those who do not want their actions to be made public.
This isn't always a bad thing, but, increasingly, as people have demanded more accountability from authority, covert activities have required more and more subterfuge.
A casual student of history can confirm countless conspiracies throughout man's recorded time wherein a small group of people conspired for nefarious purposes against other groups (typically larger) or individuals, using covert actions.
Coming up with the term "conspiracy theory" has become (at least temporarily) the Get Out of Jail FREE card for those wishing to hide in the shadows.
A more advantageous study would be the reality of conspiracies in light of current and former authorities' insistence nothing untoward was occurring.