Apologies, I posted this and then was waylaid by RL work. Good thing about Steem even comments are considered posts we can continue if you want. I'll upvote- for what my vote is worth :-) on new comments.

I'm not sure I can get behind that definition. We can't trust Merriam-Webster as it has been compromised.

How do we know a conspiracy exists if it's a secret plot, until it's actually uncovered with empirical and verifiable evidence? Those accused of the conspiracy coming forward, confirming and releasing data. How do we know?

I think "fear of" is still valid. Many of the conspiracies use fear tactics to solidify support for the theory; the government is out to get you, this or that will harm you, they are watching. Do they not?