The Secret Origins of 'Conspiracy Theory'
The term 'conspiracy theory' has a complex and evolving history, with its origins dating back to the 19th century in a forensic context. The phrase was initially used in a neutral sense to describe a theory about a crime involving multiple perpetrators. Over time, the term took on a different meaning and connotation, particularly in the mid-20th century with the work of philosophers like Karl Popper and Franz Neumann.
- ▪The phrase 'conspiracy theory' was first used in the 19th century to describe a theory about a crime involving multiple perpetrators.
- ▪The term gained popularity in the mid-20th century with the work of philosophers like Karl Popper and Franz Neumann.
- ▪The CIA did not deliberately inject the phrase into the media to discredit dissident investigators, but rather it evolved through a gradual process of linguistic change.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Conspiracy Theories The Secret Origins of 'Conspiracy Theory' A new book shows how a phrase made its way from the crime pages to our political arguments—and picked up a passel of meanings along the way. Jesse Walker | 6.23.2026 8:00 AM Share on FacebookShare on XShare on RedditShare by emailPrint friendly versionCopy page URL Add Reason to Google Media Contact & Reprint Requests <img src="https://d2eehagpk5cl65.cloudfront.net/img/c800x450-w800-q80/uploads/2026/06/hidhistorycover-800x450.jpg" style="max-width: 100%; height: auto" width="1200" height="675" title="The cover of 'The Hidden History of Conspiracy Theory'" alt="The cover of 'The Hidden History of Conspiracy Theory' | Princeton University Press/Carl Oglesby Papers" /> (Princeton University Press/Carl Oglesby…
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