Pseudohistory
From RationalWiki
Pseudohistory covers a variety of theories that do not agree with the view of history that is commonly accepted by mainstream historians, or which are not supported by usual historiographical methods. One of the primary examples of pseudohistory is Holocaust denial, but many types of conspiracy theories are also properly classed as pseudohistory.
[edit] Challenge to mainstream history
Pseudohistory presents many of the same challenges to mainstream academic history as pseudoscience does to science, but with certain significant differences. The most important difference is that history is an academic discipline, rather than a scientific one. This means that mainstream history is very dependent on a set of shared ethical academic standards and methods, and on peer review.
However, supporters of pseudohistorical theories often specifically deny the validity of these mainstream standards and methods, and denounce the peer review process as prejudiced towards the academic establishment, attempting instead to gain popular appeal. This lack of common ground can often make it difficult for mainstream historians to refute the pseudohistorical theories.
Pseudohistory is often born out of a desire to achieve a particular, predetermined result; often to justify some present day action.
[edit] See also
- Holocaust denial
- Young earth creationism
- Conspiracy theory
- Alternate historical chronology
- Holy Blood, Holy Grail
- Historical revisionism
- The Protocols of the Learned Elders of Zion
| Articles in RationalWiki related to pseudo-studies | ||
|---|---|---|
| Pseudoarcheology - Pseudohistory - Pseudolaw - Pseudomathematics - Pseudoscience - Pseudoscience list - Pseudoscience in advertising - Pseudoskepticism - Pseudovitamin | ||
