Fact-Check Article: "Illuminati Rules the World"
What We Know
The claim that the "Illuminati rules the world" is rooted in a historical secret society known as the Bavarian Illuminati, founded on May 1, 1776, by Adam Weishaupt. This group aimed to promote Enlightenment ideals by opposing superstition, religious influence in public life, and state abuses of power (Wikipedia). The Bavarian Illuminati was outlawed in the late 18th century due to pressure from conservative and religious groups (Wikipedia).
Despite its historical existence, the modern concept of the Illuminati as a shadowy organization controlling global affairs has largely emerged from conspiracy theories, particularly since the 1960s. These theories often depict the Illuminati as orchestrating world events and establishing a "New World Order" (BBC Future). The myth gained traction through various cultural references and has been sensationalized in media, leading to widespread belief in its influence (Wikipedia).
Analysis
The assertion that the Illuminati currently rules the world lacks credible evidence and is primarily based on conspiracy theories rather than factual historical continuity. The original Illuminati was a short-lived organization that faded into obscurity after being suppressed in the late 1700s. The modern narrative surrounding the Illuminati is largely a fabrication that began in the counterculture movements of the 1960s, influenced by works like Principia Discordia, which parodied the concept of secret societies (BBC Future).
Moreover, the sources that promote the idea of the Illuminati as a global puppet master often lack rigorous scholarly backing and are not recognized by credible historians. For instance, the BBC describes the modern myth as a "far-fetched paranoia" that has little to do with the historical group (BBC Future). The sensationalist portrayal of the Illuminati in popular culture has contributed to its enduring mythos, but this does not equate to actual control over world affairs (Wikipedia).
In evaluating the reliability of sources, it is important to note that while historical accounts of the Bavarian Illuminati are well-documented, the conspiracy theories surrounding its supposed modern incarnation are often speculative and lack empirical support. The origins of these theories can be traced back to cultural phenomena rather than factual historical developments (BBC Future, BBC Reel).
Conclusion
The claim that the "Illuminati rules the world" is False. The original Bavarian Illuminati was a historical society that ceased to exist over two centuries ago. The contemporary belief in the Illuminati as a powerful, secretive organization manipulating global events is primarily a product of conspiracy theories with no substantiated evidence. These theories have been popularized through media and cultural references but do not reflect any factual reality regarding the influence of the Illuminati in today's world.
