Follow

I ran across the FLICC model of science denial a while ago while reading _How to Talk to a Science Denier_ by Lee McIntyre. I can say that throughout the years of engaging flat-earthers, stop-the-stealers, creationists, Covid deniers, vaccine skeptics, QAnon believers, and the like, I have faced every one of the techniques outlined. ([Image Source](skepticalscience.com/history-F))

, , ,

Two more things to keep in mind in addition to the above:
* **Brandolini's Law**: "The amount of energy needed to refute bullshit is an order of magnitude larger than is needed to produce it." Also known as the **bullshit asymmetry principle**.
* **The Gish Gallop**: A rhetorical technique in which a person in a debate attempts to overwhelm their opponent by providing an excessive number of arguments with no regard for the accuracy or strength of those arguments.

, , ,

@gorskon @johnnylogic Yes science denial dates back to days of Copernicus and Gallileo because they contradicted the Bible. I think you could have added more about the role of Christians and churches in science denial.

Sign in to participate in the conversation
Qoto Mastodon

QOTO: Question Others to Teach Ourselves
An inclusive, Academic Freedom, instance
All cultures welcome.
Hate speech and harassment strictly forbidden.