I usually go the elite and plutocracy routes. Even when discussing NWO and Illuminati, I tend to emphasize that these are mere labels for that which usually has no formal name. It sidetracked the red scare tactics used for a century when people attempted discussion of plutocracy and the elite. No longer can you foo foo it as class warfare communist propaganda, for NWO and Illuminati play well with the "End of Days" theology started in America during the mid 1800's. There is a formal name for it but it is alluding me. It is a core component of evangelical religions. Instead other propaganda was used toward this demographic. Largely just feeding into the more dramatic and shark jumping memes of the NOW/Illuminati. It conveniently places the NWO discussion with the safe space of conspiracy theory. Feed in some religious teachings abut how America will save the world from a Catholic European Antichrist and badaboom! They made lemonade out of lemons.

So I see your point and agree... and also disagree. I am quite conflicted on your point, which indeed has plenty of merit.