An Alternative Theodicy?

When religion and science lose their cultural significance, efficacy or attractivity in explaining the tragedy of natural disasters, an alternative proposal arises, that of conspiracy theories. This article seeks to interpret the contemporary popularity of conspiracy thinking as a kind of alternative theodicy and a serious challenge for Christian theology. For this purpose, the article presents an overview of current discussions regarding the relation between religion and conspiracy theories, with particular emphasis on the theological dimension of the problem. An examination of affinities and differences between science, religious explanation and conspiracy mentality helps to better understand the roots and main features of conspiracism in the contemporary world. It also allows us to revisit an old accusation that finds traditional religion culpable of susceptibility to conspiratorial thinking. This view can be contrasted with another perspectives which links the culture of conspiracy with new and esoteric spiritual movements or with modern rationalism or postmodern culture of suspicion. All these considerations show the limitations of simplified dialectics of religion and rationality and highlight some essential characteristics of a theological reflection on natural disasters and theodicy. The issues discussed bring up some ideas regarding the credibility of Christianity and point to the possible contribution of theology in the current discussion on conspiracism.