Michael Taylor: The Original Conspiracy Theory
Where did conspiracy culture really begin? Long before QAnon, online rabbit holes and shadowy internet myths, there was the Illuminati: a real eighteenth-century secret society whose ambitions, exposure and afterlife would help shape centuries of paranoid thinking. In this gripping event, historian Michael Taylor discusses Illuminati: The History of a Conspiracy Theory, his riveting account of the group that became the blueprint for modern conspiracy culture. From 18th century Ingolstadt and the French Revolution to the Protocols of the Elders of Zion, America’s Christian Right and today’s online extremism, Taylor traces how one idea spiralled across history, feeding fear, misinformation and fantasies of hidden power. Timely, unsettling and darkly fascinating, this is an eye-opening conversation about why conspiracy theories endure – and why they matter more than ever. This event will be chaired by Jolyon Rubinstein, a BAFTA-winning writer, broadcaster and comedian with a fascination for politics, misinformation and the increasingly blurry line between fact and fiction. He co-created and starred in BBC Three’s The Revolution Will Be Televised, which won the BAFTA for Best Comedy Programme, and has brought his sharp political wit to shows including Revolting and Don’t Hate the Playaz. As co-creator and host of The New Conspiracist podcast, he has explored conspiracy theories, misinformation and why we believe what we believe, alongside guests including Marina Hyde, Adam Curtis and Alex Gibney. Bringing humour, curiosity and a healthy dose of scepticism, he’s perfectly placed to steer a conversation about the strange and seductive world of conspiracy theories. Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of stories, ideas and conversation by the sea. Curated by novelist Sophie Haydock (The Flames, Madame Matisse), this year’s festival brings together more than 60 events across two weeks, welcoming world-class writers, thinkers and storytellers to Folkestone. Discover another event, browse the bookshop, explore Folkestone’s vibrant arts scene, independent cafés, bars and galleries, and share the experience with a friend. The Festival is part of Folkestone is a Library, our ambitious town-wide celebration of reading, writing and storytelling, helping make Folkestone one of the UK’s most exciting literary destinations. We believe great conversations should be for everyone, which is why every event includes a £5 Cost of Living Ticket, available with no questions asked. Please help us spread the word. Together, we’re building a thriving community of readers, writers and curious minds. Folkestone Book Festival is proudly supported by Eurotunnel, Canterbury Christ Church University, Holiday Extras, and the Friends of Folkestone Book Festival. Creative Folkestone is supported by Arts Council England, Folkestone & Hythe District Council and Saga. Founding Funder The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.
