Why are conspiracy theories about Freemasonry and the Illuminati not real?
Conspiracy theories surrounding Freemasonry and the Illuminati often stem from misunderstandings and misrepresentations of the organizations' true nature and purposes. Freemasonry is fundamentally a fraternal organization that emphasizes moral and personal development through allegory and symbolism. Its core tenets focus on brotherly love, relief (charity), and truth, as stated in the *Book of Constitutions* of the United Grand Lodge of England, which aims to 'make good men better.'
Moreover, the Illuminati, originally a historical group from the 18th century, ceased to exist as an organized entity long ago. The conflation of the Illuminati with Freemasonry has led to numerous unfounded conspiracy theories that suggest secret plots or world domination. However, these claims lack credible evidence and often ignore the transparent and charitable activities that modern Freemasonry engages in, such as community service and support for various causes.
As George Washington noted in his correspondence, he believed that 'none of the Lodges in this Country are contaminated with the principles ascribed to the society of the Illuminati'. This sentiment reflects the reality that Freemasonry operates openly, with lodges meeting regularly and engaging in public service, countering the notion of a secretive or conspiratorial organization.