A conspiracy theory is a belief or explanation that suggests events or situations are secretly manipulated by powerful groups or individuals, often without substantial evidence. These theories typically challenge the official accounts of events, proposing that hidden agendas are at play. Common examples include theories surrounding major political events, historical occurrences, or even scientific phenomena. People who subscribe to conspiracy theories often feel distrustful of mainstream sources of information, such as governments, media, or scientific institutions. While some conspiracy theories may have elements of truth, many are based on speculation and can lead to misinformation, affecting public perception and behavior.