Editing Secret society

A '''secret society''' is an organization that requires its members to conceal certain activities, membership, or rituals from non-members. These societies often claim to possess exclusive knowledge or to be the custodians of particular traditions. Historically, as alleged by many [[conspiracy theory|conspiracy theorists]], secret societies have exerted significant influence on political, economic, and social systems, operating in the shadows with goals that range from benign to controversial.
==History and origins==
Secret societies have existed throughout history, with some of the earliest instances found in ancient cultures, including the [[Mystery religions]] of [[Ancient Greece]] and [[Ancient Egypt]]. These groups were typically organized around specific rituals or spiritual beliefs, often involving initiations believed to impart special wisdom or power to the members. In more modern contexts, secret societies such as the [[Freemasons]] and the [[Illuminati]] have been rumored to influence global affairs. Such claims often intersect with [[conspiracy theory|conspiracy theories]], which propose that these organizations covertly control political or economic systems.
==Role of secret societies in political, economic, and social systems==
Prominent conspiracy theorist [[William Cooper]] claimed that secret societies have been actively working since at least 1917 to create an [[simulated alien invasion|artificial extraterrestrial threat]]. This orchestrated effort is purportedly aimed at unifying humanity under a singular global government, frequently referred to as the [[New World Order (conspiracy theory)|New World Order]]. Cooper suggested that secret societies might manipulate public perception and influence governments to achieve their objectives.<ref name="Cooper1991p27">Cooper, Milton William (1991). ''Behold a Pale Horse''. p. 27. Flagstaff, Ariz.: Light Technology Publishing. ISBN 978-0929385228. PDF: [https://highlanderjuan.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/William-Cooper-Behold-a-Pale-Horse.pdf Highlander Juan's archive]. Internet Archive: [https://archive.org/details/beholdpalehorse0000coop/page/n9/mode/2up "Behold a pale horse"]</ref> The impact and credibility of claims regarding the role and influence of secret societies vary greatly. Academic historians typically approach such assertions with skepticism, requiring empirical evidence before accepting them as fact. Nonetheless, the narrative of powerful secret societies influencing global events persists in popular culture and public discourse.
==Cultural impact==
Secret societies have become ingrained in popular culture, often portrayed as either malevolent or misunderstood. Literature, film, and television frequently depict these organizations as possessing arcane knowledge or power. The appeal of such narratives is rooted in a human fascination with secrecy and the exertion of control by hidden entities.
==References==
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