Are We Living in the Age of Jeffrey Epstein?

The New Yorker

by Joshua Rothman

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Jeffrey Epstein scandal has revealed a disturbing reflection of modern American life, intertwining themes of power, corruption, and mistrust that have long defined the Trump era. As millions of documents were released, detailing Epstein’s decades of exploitation and manipulation, it became clear that his influence extended far beyond his personal actions, implicating powerful figures and institutions in a web of secrecy and abuse. This scandal has become a symbol of the darker side of American culture, where fear of an unaccountable elite, distrust in the justice system, and a fascination with unchecked power converge. The article reflects on the cultural shift during Trump’s rise, where every story seemed to connect back to his influence. The idea that the world was controlled by a corrupt, globalist élite resonated deeply, positioning Trump as an outsider who promised to disrupt this perceived corruption. This mindset, combined with a distrust of experts and a desire for “rough justice,” created fertile ground for figures like Epstein to operate in the shadows. The scandal now serves as a prism through which these fears and anxieties are refracted, revealing a grim vision of society that feels both familiar and alarming. For many, Epstein’s story is not just about one man but about the broader failure of power structures to hold themselves accountable. It raises questions about how far those in positions of influence will go to protect their interests, and whether the systems meant to regulate them are truly capable of doing so. This narrative has fueled speculation about a “global élite” that remains unaccountable, with Epstein’s connections to high-profile individuals and institutions furthering the sense that the world is rigged in favor of the powerful. The cultural significance of this scandal lies in its ability to tap into deep-seated fears about morality, justice, and the concentration of power. It has become a Rorschach test for modern America, where people see what they want to believe—whether it’s confirmation of their distrust in authority or evidence that the system is fundamentally broken. As the pieces continue to shift and reconfigure, the Epstein scandal remains a haunting reminder of how easily darkness can be hidden in plain sight, and how difficult it is to truly escape its grip.

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Originally published on The New Yorker on 2/24/2026