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Reynolds C. Jones

There has never been a time when concern among people about hidden groups possibly ruling the world has been higher. This is a rigorous course that looks at what we know about secret orders, hidden fraternities and the effects they have had since the dawn of modern man. This is a foundations level course that looks at secret societies from preliterate times to the present and examines the evidence for their powerful effects on human societies through the ages.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Students will leave the course with a functional knowledge of the history of secret societies and their influence
  • Students who take the honor version of the course will have a deeper knowledge regarding a given secret society

Syllabus

Students will have an understanding of the traditional and continuing power of secret societies

This is an impromptu lecture - each lesson will have an impromptu lecture followed by a regular academic lecture involving a slide show and data, then assignments and quizzes.

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Regular lecture for Module One.

This quiz is intended to help you establish the baseline knowledge that you have on the topic of secret societies. Some of the quiz is general knowledge, some relates to the lecture just given.

This is the impromptu lecture for module two

Regular lecture for Module Two

This is the impromptu lecture for Module Three

This is the lecture for Module Three - and discusses secret societies in the ancient world.

Reviewing your knowledge of secret societies in the ancient world

This is the Impromptu lecture for Module Four

Module Four Lecture

This is the impromptu video for Module Five

Module Five Lecture

This quiz takes a look at what you've learned about Secret Societies and the American and other revolutions.

This is the Module Six Impromptu video

This is the module six lecture - which discusses the various mutual benefit societies and other secret societies that arose in America after the Revolution through the 1800s and early 1900s.

The final impromptu lecture - lecture seven

Module Seven Lecture. This will lead the student to be able to discuss the modern incarnations of secret societies at an introductory level.

This is the final examination for the course. I would prefer to be able to use short answer questions and grade your work - but that is not within the available tools, so this is multiple choice.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the influence of secret societies throughout history, which may add color to other topics and subjects in the social sciences
Examines the evidence for the effects of secret societies on human societies, which may be useful for personal growth and development
Includes impromptu lectures, which may be useful for students who prefer a more conversational and less formal approach to learning
Requires students taking the honors version to have a deeper knowledge regarding a given secret society, which may require additional research
Covers secret societies from pre-literate times to the present, which may be useful for students interested in a comprehensive study of the topic

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Reviews summary

Historical overview of secret societies

Based on the course structure and syllabus, learners might find this course offers a broad historical scope covering secret societies from pre-literate times to the present. Presented as a foundational level exploration, it seems well-suited for those new to the topic seeking a good overview. The course utilizes a mix of impromptu lectures and regular academic lectures, supported by assignments and quizzes. Some learners might feel the multiple choice final exam limits the ability to demonstrate deeper understanding.
Mix of lecture styles and assignments.
"Liked the mix of impromptu and regular lectures."
"The assignments helped reinforce learning."
"Quizzes and exams test understanding."
Great intro, lacks depth for advanced.
"Good as a starting point for the topic."
"Perfect if you're new to this history."
"Those seeking deep dives might want more."
Covers history from ancient to modern.
"Learned about secret societies across many eras."
"I got a good overview of the topic's history."
"Covers everything from ancient times to modern."
Final exam is multiple choice.
"Wished the final had essay questions for deeper thought."
"The multiple choice format was limiting."
"Exam didn't feel like it fully tested complex ideas."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The History of Secret Societies with these activities:
Review Ancient Civilizations
Refresh your knowledge of ancient civilizations to better understand the historical context in which early secret societies emerged.
Browse courses on Ancient Egypt
Show steps
  • Review notes from previous history courses.
  • Read articles or watch documentaries about ancient cultures.
  • Take a practice quiz on ancient history.
Read 'The Secret History of the World' by Mark Booth
Gain a broader understanding of esoteric traditions and their influence on historical events.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Secret History of the World'.
  • Read the book, taking notes on key concepts and figures.
  • Reflect on how the book's perspective aligns with or differs from the course material.
Read 'Proofs of a Conspiracy' by John Robison
Understand historical perspectives on conspiracy theories and the perception of secret societies.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Proofs of a Conspiracy'.
  • Read the book, paying attention to the author's arguments and evidence.
  • Consider the historical context in which the book was written.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Create a Timeline of Secret Societies
Solidify your understanding of the chronological development of secret societies by creating a visual timeline.
Show steps
  • Research key secret societies and their founding dates.
  • Create a timeline using online tools or presentation software.
  • Add brief descriptions of each society's purpose and activities.
Research a Specific Secret Society
Deepen your knowledge by conducting in-depth research on a secret society that interests you.
Show steps
  • Choose a secret society to research.
  • Gather information from various sources, including books, articles, and websites.
  • Write a report summarizing the society's history, beliefs, and activities.
Debate the Influence of Secret Societies
Engage in a debate to critically analyze the extent of secret societies' influence on historical events.
Show steps
  • Formulate arguments for and against the significant influence of secret societies.
  • Research evidence to support your arguments.
  • Participate in a debate with classmates or online forums.

Career center

Learners who complete The History of Secret Societies will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Academic Researcher
An academic researcher conducts research in a specific field, often at a university or research institution, and publishes findings in scholarly journals. The course's detailed coverage of the history of secret societies and their influence provides a strong foundation for further academic research in this area. Academic Researcher who study history would find this course particularly useful. Having a deeper knowledge regarding a given Secret Society will give one an edge in this role.
Historian
A historian researches, analyzes, and interprets the past, often specializing in a specific period or subject. A historian could benefit from this course by gaining a deeper understanding of the role and influence of secret societies throughout history. The course's coverage of secret societies from preliterate times to the present may provide valuable insights and context for historical research and analysis. Becoming a historian is a great choice for those who love to dive deep into history. A historian with knowledge on secret societies can be a great asset to any team.
Political Scientist
A political scientist researches and analyzes political systems, trends, and ideologies. This course, which examines the effects of secret societies on human societies through the ages, may greatly benefit a political scientist. The curriculum's focus on the history of secret societies, from preliterate times to the present, would help a political scientist understand the historical context and evolution of these groups, as well as the ways in which they have interacted with and influenced political landscapes and events across different eras. The role of Political Scientist is one that rewards understanding of history.
Cultural Anthropologist
A cultural anthropologist studies human societies and cultures, with a focus on understanding their beliefs, practices, and social organization. The course's examination of secret societies, from preliterate cultures to modern times, may help a cultural anthropologist understand the role and function of these groups within different societies. A cultural anthropologist will be able to use this knowledge to better understand the presence of secret societies in pre literate cultures. Cultural Anthropologist is a job that always needs more minds.
Investigative Journalist
An investigative journalist conducts in-depth investigations into complex or hidden issues, often uncovering wrongdoing or corruption. Investigative Journalist may benefit from taking this course. The course's exploration of secret societies, their history, and their potential influence may help an investigative journalist understand how these groups operate, their potential motives, and their impact on events. Given the course's thorough coverage of the history of secret societies, one may be well suited to uncover the secret and hidden affairs of secret organizations.
Intelligence Officer
An intelligence officer gathers, analyzes, and disseminates intelligence information for government agencies. The course's coverage of secret societies, their structures, and their historical impact may help an intelligence officer understand the potential role of these groups in contemporary affairs. This course will lead the student to be able to discuss the modern incarnations of secret societies at an introductory level, which will be invaluable to an Intelligence Officer. In this role, you may benefit from exploring secret societies in the ancient world.
Intelligence Analyst
An intelligence analyst gathers and analyzes information to assess threats, risks, and trends, often for government or law enforcement agencies. The course's focus on the structure, activities, and impact of secret societies may help an intelligence analyst understand how these groups operate, their potential goals, and their influence on events. Intelligence Analyst is a job title that may be suited for you. The course will teach you about the traditional and continuing power of secret societies, which will make you more capable in the role.
Due Diligence Investigator
A due diligence investigator conducts background checks and investigations to assess risks and verify information for businesses or organizations. The course's exploration of secret societies in the United States may help a due diligence investigator identify potential connections or affiliations of individuals or organizations with these groups. Due Diligence Investigator is a role that is well suited for those who have a functional knowledge of the history of Secret Societies and their influence.
Security Consultant
A security consultant assesses security risks and develops strategies to protect individuals, organizations, or assets. The course's investigation into the history and influence of secret societies may help a security consultant identify potential threats or vulnerabilities associated with these groups. If you become a security consultant, you will be grateful you took this course. This is because the course will help you develop an understanding of the traditional and continuing power of secret societies.
Policy Analyst
A policy analyst researches and analyzes policy issues, develops recommendations, and advises policymakers. The course's focus on the history and influence of secret societies may help a policy analyst understand how these groups might impact policy decisions, shape public opinion, or lobby for specific outcomes. Policy Analyst is a role that may be of interest to you. This course provides a functional knowledge of the history of secret societies and their influence.
Genealogist
A genealogist researches and traces family histories, often using historical records and documents. The course's coverage of secret societies throughout history may help a genealogist understand potential affiliations of ancestors with these groups and uncover valuable information about their lives. A genealogist can use the knowledge they obtain in this course to enhance their understanding of historical movements and social structures. Genealogy needs more passionate and dedicated workers. The role of Genealogist is one that may suit you.
Museum curator
A museum curator is responsible for the collection, preservation, and exhibition of artifacts or artworks within a museum. The course's exploration of secret societies throughout history may help a museum curator understand the historical context and significance of artifacts related to these groups. The course may help a museum curator design effective exhibits and educational programs. As a museum curator, it is imperative you understand artifacts and their place in history.
Cultural Resources Manager
A cultural resources manager works to preserve and protect historical and cultural sites and artifacts. The course's exploration of secret societies throughout history may help a cultural resources manager understand the cultural significance of sites or artifacts associated with these groups. This can inform preservation efforts and interpretation strategies. A cultural resources manager may find that learning about the historical impact of secret societies teaches them about the effects on human societies through the ages. The role of Cultural Resources Manager may be for you if you take this course.
Archivist
An archivist is responsible for assessing, collecting, preserving, arranging, and describing historically important records. Given that the course covers the history of secret societies from preliterate times to the present, this course may help an archivist better understand the historical context and significance of documents related to these organizations. An archivist may find the course helpful in contextualizing the emergence, development, and influence of these societies through various periods. This course teaches the history of secret societies and their influence, so those working as archivist may find this information useful when they are collecting and preserving the past.
Lobbyist
A lobbyist advocates for specific interests or causes by influencing policymakers. Understanding the history and influence of secret societies, as taught in the course, may help a lobbyist identify potential allies or adversaries, understand the dynamics of power, and craft effective strategies. The course touches on the development of secret societies in the Middle Ages and Renaissance. To be a lobbyist means to be extremely aware of the nuances of history.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The History of Secret Societies.
Provides a broad overview of esoteric traditions and their influence on Western history. It explores various secret societies and their philosophies, offering a comprehensive background for understanding their historical context. While it covers a vast range of topics, it serves as excellent supplementary reading to deepen one's understanding of the course material.
Published in 1798, this book classic text in the history of conspiracy theories. Robison, a Scottish professor, argued that the Illuminati had infiltrated Freemasonry and were plotting to overthrow European governments. While controversial, it provides valuable insight into the historical context of anxieties surrounding secret societies.

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