Can the belief in conspiracies and secret societies be seen as a barometer for public dissent and mistrust toward authority, and what does this indicate about societal health?

ANSWER: Yes, belief in conspiracies can reflect public dissent and mistrust toward authority, measuring societal unease. When conventional explanations fail to satiate public curiosity or when trust in institutions wanes, conspiracy theories often fill the void, offering alternative narratives. This can indicate a society's health troubles, highlighting issues like lack of transparency, misinformation, and alienation among citizens. It serves as a wake-up call for authorities to rebuild trust and engage in more open communication to address the root causes of such skepticism.