An Excellent Study On Denialism
Tuesday, January 31, 2012 - 14:31
in Psychology & Sociology
The Wall Street Journal published an excellent case study in denialism on Friday, in the form of a letter from sixteen scientists seeking to perpetuate gridlock in climate policy. While nothing they have to say raises any scientific issues about climate change, the letter is interesting to peruse simply to see what arguments they use, and what that says about their motivations.The letter uses several denialist tactics, including, 1) Cherry-picked examples placed out of context, 2) Unsupported claims, 3) Irrelevant distractions, 4) Implications of conspiracy, and 5) Self-portrayal as stubborn heros fighting against the odds. read more