Conspiracy theories in US politics: Trump is not the first in history

Conspiracy theories are not a modern phenomenon – they have accompanied humanity throughout history. In the US context, Trump is not the first president to be surrounded by conspiracy theories. Belief in conspiracies is stronger where education levels are lower and critical thinking skills are weaker.

At first glance, it may seem that conspiracy theories are a problem of today – something that gained momentum in the age of social media and culminated in Donald Trump's political rise. But looking at history, it becomes clear that explaining the world through mysterious forces and hidden intentions has accompanied humanity long before the internet.

Conspiracy theories have appeared repeatedly in US political life. They have been associated with numerous presidents before Trump, with each era finding both theories and their faithful followers. Trump is therefore not an exception, but rather part of a longer tradition.

Why conspiracy theories spread

Belief in conspiracy theories is not a random phenomenon. Research shows that such explanations are adopted primarily where education levels are lower, social uncertainty is greater, and critical thinking habits are less firmly established. People have a natural need to find simple and understandable explanations for complex events.

Personal experience also plays a role. If people have truly been victims of injustice, mistreatment, or malicious intent, the acceptance of conspiracy theories becomes much more likely. Distrust of institutions creates fertile ground for all kinds of alternative narratives.

Historical parallels

Explaining the world through hidden forces is a universal human tendency. The question is not so much whether conspiracy theories exist, but how society stands against them. A strong education system, functioning institutions, and a culture of public debate are the best tools to keep the influence of conspiratorial thinking within bounds.