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

Wright’s pick follows Trump’s previous opinions on climate change Wright’s pick follows a pattern that Trump has followed regarding climate denialism. —Darren Samuelsohn, USA TODAY, 15 Jan. 2025

Election and federal officials have already voiced concern about possible voter intimidation this November, in part due to the proliferation of politically violent rhetoric and election denialism. —Tess Owen, WIRED, 11 Oct. 2024

Meanwhile, Heap often toed the line of election denialism as a state lawmaker and while campaigning for his new post. —Sasha Hupka, The Arizona Republic, 23 Dec. 2024

Conservative voter denialism efforts have also spiraled into violent rhetoric since 2020, while liberal rhetoric so far has not. —Kat Tenbarge, NBC News, 16 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

denial + -ism

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined above