New Scientist: Age Of Denial

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New Scientist is a weekly science magazine that’s been around since the mid-1950s, and covers recent developments in science and technology. While it isn’t a peer reviewed journal, it is well respected, and is read by both scientists and the general public.

This week, New Scientist presents six opinion pieces on denialism, how it differs from skepticism, and how best to combat it.

Given the proliferation of denialism, and the embracing of conspiracy theories by more and more of the public, these articles are well worth your time.

When a sceptic isn't a sceptic

There are clear lines between scepticism and denial, but telling them apart can be tricky in the real world, says Michael Shermer. Read more

Why sensible people reject the truth

Denialism satisfies deep emotional needs. That makes it easy to encourage and hard to counter, says Debora MacKenzie. Read more

How corporations manufacture doubt

If the truth is inconvenient, put up a smokescreen instead. It works wonders for big business, argues Richard Littlemore. Read more

Unleashing a lie

It's easy to send a lie flying around the world, and almost impossible to shoot it down, says Jim Giles. Read more

Questioning science isn't blasphemy

Michael Fitzpatrick argues that calling an opponent a denier is illiberal, intolerant and ineffective. Read more

The truth is our only weapon

We must let denialists be heard, and respond with patience, vigilance and tireless rebuttal, says Michael Shermer. Read more