Fact Check: "The world is ruled by lizards"
What We Know
The claim that "the world is ruled by lizards" refers to the Reptilian conspiracy theory, which suggests that shape-shifting reptilian aliens control Earth by taking on human form and infiltrating positions of power. This theory was popularized by conspiracy theorist David Icke, who asserts that many world leaders are either reptilian beings or are possessed by them. The origins of the reptilian concept can be traced back to early 20th-century fiction, particularly the works of Robert E. Howard, who introduced the idea of "serpent men" in his stories. These characters were depicted as humanoid creatures capable of shape-shifting and manipulating human societies (Wikipedia).
The notion of reptilians is not supported by credible evidence and is widely regarded as a fantastical conspiracy theory. Scholars have pointed out that while conspiracy theories can sometimes reflect real conspiracies, the reptilian theory lacks any substantial basis in fact and is often dismissed as pseudoscience (PMC).
Analysis
The Reptilian conspiracy theory is characterized by its lack of empirical support and reliance on anecdotal evidence. Critics of this theory argue that it exemplifies the dangers of conspiracy thinking, where individuals attribute complex social and political phenomena to malevolent, often fantastical, forces. According to Dentith, the belief in such theories can lead to harmful societal consequences, including the erosion of trust in legitimate political institutions.
The sources discussing this theory, including the Wikipedia article and Dentith's analysis, highlight that the reptilian narrative is rooted in science fiction and has been propagated through various media, rather than being based on factual occurrences. The theory's proponents often dismiss counterarguments by labeling skeptics as part of the conspiracy, which is a common tactic in conspiracy discourse.
Moreover, the academic community generally views conspiracy theories, including the reptilian narrative, as epistemically problematic. The lack of verifiable evidence, reliance on unfounded speculation, and the tendency to conflate unrelated events contribute to the theory's dismissal by scholars (PMC).
Conclusion
The claim that "the world is ruled by lizards" is False. It is based on a conspiracy theory that lacks credible evidence and is widely regarded as a fantastical narrative rather than a reflection of reality. The origins of the reptilian concept in fiction and its propagation through conspiracy theorists like David Icke underscore its status as a pseudoscientific belief rather than a substantiated claim.
Sources
- Suspicious conspiracy theories - PMC
- Reptilian conspiracy theory - Wikipedia
- Behind the Belief: Lizard People - U.OSU
- The Future of Jobs Report 2025 | World Economic Forum
- Lizard people: the greatest political conspiracy ever created - Vox
- Latest World News & Headlines - SBS
- Like QAnon's Capitol rioters, the Nashville bomber's lizard ... - NBC News
