While the superstitious Jedi had long been a blight on the galaxy, it is true that before they attempted to outright take over the Republic, a particular period of corruption occurred. At their best, the Jedi were simply adherents of a bizarre and ancient religion, but in the decades before the Clone Wars a pseudo-scientific veneer was placed on their bizarre beliefs. This, many imperial scholars (including myself) believe, was a vital part of their decision to attempt the coup that so grievously wounded the now emperor, and forced Imperial policy from a polite toleration of this cult, to the current (and entirely justified) outright ban.