In today’s world, it can sometimes feel like we’re facing an endless series of crises. From climate change to economic troubles, health scares, and social tensions, there seems to be one issue after another.

Many people wonder if there’s something more going on behind the scenes, a bigger plan that connects all these events in ways we don’t fully understand. Some believe that powerful people or groups (sometimes called “elites”) might be shaping how we see and react to these crises to influence how society operates. This idea doesn’t mean that every crisis is fake, but rather that how we experience and respond to these issues might be nudged in certain directions to benefit those in power.

One way of thinking about this is through a concept called the Hegelian Dialectic. It sounds complicated, but it’s actually pretty simple. Imagine that a problem is introduced (like a crisis), people react strongly to it (often with fear or worry), and then a solution is offered by leaders or experts.

This solution might involve new rules, restrictions, or changes that people would usually resist, but in the middle of a crisis, they’re more willing to accept it. Over time, this approach can lead to major shifts in society. For example, if people feel constantly unsafe, they might support policies that promise more security, even if it means giving up a little freedom.

Another important factor in this process is how algorithms on social media and other platforms shape what we see. The news and stories that pop up on our feeds aren’t random. They’re selected based on our interests, past clicks, and often what will get the most reaction from us.

Those in control of these platforms can use this to push certain narratives to the forefront while downplaying others. This can create a loop where we’re constantly seeing messages that keep us anxious, outraged, or glued to our screens. It becomes easy for people to see the world in a particular way, even if it’s not the full picture.

This constant exposure to crisis and fear can have a big effect on us. When people are scared, they’re more likely to follow leaders who promise safety, even if it means accepting changes they wouldn’t normally agree to. This is a natural human response. In times of fear, our minds focus more on immediate security than on long-term consequences. This kind of “fear-based control” can make it easier for powerful people or groups to introduce rules or structures that might limit personal choices, all under the idea of keeping us safe.

There’s also an economic side to all of this. During times of crisis, the economy often becomes unstable, with prices going up, job security dropping, and markets acting unpredictably. While most of us might feel the pinch, those with a lot of money and resources can actually benefit. They can buy up assets cheaply when everyone else is panicking and sell them when things settle down. In this way, economic instability can make the rich even richer, while the average person ends up more dependent on things like government aid, loans, or other systems that can create a cycle of dependency.

It’s worth thinking about how these ongoing crises can divide us. When people are stressed, they’re more likely to clash over differences like politics, race, or beliefs. Leaders and media sometimes seem to encourage these divisions, which can keep us focused on our differences instead of working together to question bigger issues. This division can weaken communities, making it harder to unite for common goals. When people are busy fighting each other, they’re less likely to challenge those in power or push for meaningful changes.

There may be a pattern behind the endless problems we face.