Winston Berg, a political scientist specializing in conspiracy theories, particularly QAnon, discusses historical and modern implications of the ‘deep state’ concept. His dissertation and recent work connect the political dynamics of Byzantine governance with contemporary American conspiracy movements. Through a podcast hosted by Anthony Kaldellis at the University of Chicago, they explore the commonalities in how society perceives power structures and the individuals operating within them, revealing how such perceptions shape political discourse today.
Berg examines the historical roots of conspiracy theories in Byzantium, revealing how notions of a ‘deep state’ resonate through time, reflecting political power struggles.
His analysis of QAnon highlights how modern conspiracies are fueled by distrust in institutions, paralleling earlier beliefs about Byzantine elites manipulating politics from behind the scenes.
Through the lens of his dissertation, Berg connects ancient Byzantine political dynamics with contemporary American conspiratorial thought, showing the enduring nature of these narratives.
The podcast discussion with Kaldellis underscores the significance of understanding historical precedents in analyzing current conspiracy theories, especially as they relate to governance and societal trust.
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