The iea of a covert plan to create a New World Order (Novus Ordo Mundi) refers to what several scholars consider to be one of the most widespread conspiracy theories. The allegations, which cut across political and social boundaries, describe a powerful and secretive group alleged to be plotting to eventually rule the world via an autonomous world government, which would replace sovereign states and other checks and balances in world power struggles. In this conspiracy theory, many significant occurrences are said to be caused by a powerful secret group or groups. Historical and current events are seen as steps in an on-going plot to rule the world primarily through a combination of political finance, social engineering, mind control, and fear-based propaganda.