The big problem is that conspiracy theory is used in two different ways. The first is as a conspiracy theory, which refers to to an explanation that invokes a conspiracy. Although some authors say that the invoked conspiracy is nonexistent, I think it is more appropriate for most cases to say that the conspiracy is unproven. The second use of conspiracy theory is generic, referring to the act of appealing to, or the tendency to appeal to, undocumented conspiracy and continuing to appeal to it for years to centuries without documentation. Unfortunately, this generic use is seldom defined. Readers have to figure it out for themselves.
We might also note that the theory in conspiracy theory is used incorrectly. At least in the scientific world, a theory is is an advanced stage of explanation, an idea that was first proposed as a hypothesis, then rose to the level of working hypothesis, and then survived enough tests to ultimately be taken very seriously and regarded as the best explanation. A conspiracy theory usually shares none of these characteristics. By its very nature, it is undocumentable, and hence represents the earliest stage of explanation. It should probably be called a conspiracy hypothesis. But even this term is too strong, because it is an idea that has failed the test of finding concrete evidence for it. Whatever term is appropriate, it is not conspiracy theory.
There have been conspiracy theories as long as there have been conspiracies, since the beginning of time.
The most common conspiracy theories include the assassination of JFK, the death of Elvis Presley, and 911.
Conspiracy theories exist, so yes, they are real. However, they are almost invariably wrong, so no, they are not true.
Conspiracy theorist, or nut job.
Former Navy Seal, Wrestler, Governor of Minnesota, host of canceled TV show on conspiracy theories
Documentaries - are usually factual programs based around real, hard evidence. Conspiracy theories - are just that - theories based conjecture and supposition.
Someone who is interested and/or involved in the creation, analyzing of, or spreading of conspiracy theories.
Many times, paranoia.
NO
Most people can't resist getting the details on the latest conspiracy theories, goal is to make the world safe for interdependence by protecting the benefits.
There's no way to tell if Jesse really believes the conspiracy theories he has on his show or if he's just putting on a show.
Christopher Hitchens stated that "Conspiracy theories are the exhaust fumes of democracy" in his 2001 book "Letters to a Young Contrarian."