Causes of creation and impacts of conspiracy theories: a case study of the culture and the political environment of the USA

Conspiracy theories make an impression of irrational constructs. Their origin and essence, however, have a highly rational explanation. Understanding conspiracy as a major motive force of the key historical events has its roots in a natural human perception of the world order. Such a view of reality is particularly widespread in the U.S. This thesis uses its example to identify sources of conspiracy beliefs stemming from culture, political environment and influence of new medias. The thesis also examines impacts of conspiracy theories in the U.S. It does so by pointing out their capability of determining players' actions, undermining the american government's activities, manipulating public opinion and instigating violence.