not Illuminati so much as Freemasonry. There is a difference, and some level of misdirection. Kanye West laughed at the idea of being in the Illuminati, because he knows Freemasonry is the true cabal and he is a part of it. "Plausible deniability" of sorts, though that's probably not the most accurate term to use. EDIT TO ADD THOUGHT - The Illuminati conspiracy is a useful tool and cover for Freemasons because it is easily mocked and discredited, subconsciously steering people away from investigating further and finding the truth.