denialism

noun

de·​ni·​al·​ism di-ˈnī(-ə)l-ˌi-zəm 

dē-

: the practice of denying the existence, truth, or validity of something despite proof or strong evidence that it is real, true, or valid

This depressing tale is the latest incarnation of denialism, the systematic rejection of a body of science in favour of make-believe.

—Debora MacKenzie

He [Henry Puna] said climate change denialism jeopardised the future of Pacific countries: "Some are not willing to accept the stark realities."

—Ben Doherty

The problem of vaccine denialism is closely tied to the problem of information and authority in the digital age. People prone to skepticism can cover themselves with layers of pseudo-science and conspiracy theories that thicken and harden like papier mache.

—Michael Gerson

Getting accurate information across in the face of this science denialism is something of a minefield, as there is evidence that attempts to correct misinformation may backfire, further entrenching the beliefs of science deniers instead.

—Cathleen O'Grady

Examples of denialism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Four years after former President Donald Trump lost the state and election denialism took root, officials continue to see threats, protests and harassment. —Sasha Hupka, The Arizona Republic, 6 Nov. 2024

Kentucky In Kentucky, Secretary of State Michael Adams (R) has long been lauded as a fierce critic of election denialism within the GOP. —Ivana Saric, Axios, 1 Nov. 2024

This time around, with more money on the line and election denialism already in the air, a contested election could result in even more anomalous election odds after the polls close. —Lila Shroff, The Atlantic, 31 Oct. 2024

One of Schwarzenegger’s biggest motivators in endorsing Harris and Walz: his strong stance against election denialism. —Brooke Seipel, Fortune, 30 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

denial + -ism

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined above