Freemasons are not involved in conspiracy theories. Many myths and misconceptions have surrounded Freemasonry over the years, often due to its private nature and use of rituals and symbols. Freemasonry, however, is a legitimate and transparent fraternal organisation that promotes ethical behaviour, charity and personal development. Claims of conspiracies or secret control over political or economic systems are unfounded and been debunked by reputable sources.

Lodges: individual lodges are the basic units, each with its own members and officers e.g. Master, Wardens, Orator.
Provincial / District Grand Lodges: A Provincial or District Grand Lodge oversees all lodges within its specific jurisdiction, such a province or district, and has its own officers e.g.: Provincial / District Grand Master, Wardens, Orator.
Grand Lodges: A Grand Lodge sets the rules and regulations of all the lodges that fall under its jurisdiction, such as a country or territory, and ensures that they adhere to Masonic principles e.g. The Grand Lodge of South Africa, the United Grand Lodge of England and the Grand Lodge of Scotland.

Masonic symbols are used to convey moral and ethical lessons. Some key symbols include:
The Square and Compasses, which represent rectitude and self-restraint.
The Level and Plumb, which signify equality and upright behaviour.
The Apron, which is a symbol of purity and the dignity of labour.
The All-Seeing Eye, which represents the watchful care of Divine Providence.

Advancing through the degrees of Freemasonry involves several steps:
Initiation as an Entered Apprentice: the candidate undergoes a ceremony of initiation to learn the fundamental lessons of Freemasonry.
Passing to the Degree of Fellowcraft: the candidate participates in a second ceremony that stresses education, work and the study of Masonic symbols.
Raising to the Degree of a Master Mason: the final ceremony involves more complex teachings and completes the candidate’s journey through teaching him the most important lessons of Freemasonry.

Men join Freemasonry for a variety of reasons. Some join because they are seeking camaraderie and good friendships, others because they desire to practice charity and improve their communities, still others because they want to better themselves by practicing a lebensphilosophie (‘philosophy of life’). Freemasonry offers all this and more. It is at once a united brotherhood made up of men, who each bring their own interests and talents to a fraternity that encourages individuality and self-awareness.