Denialism
Denialism: How Irrational Thinking Hinders Scientific Progress, Harms the Planet, and Threatens Our Lives is a 2009 book by science journalist Michael Specter. It investigates the cultural and psychological roots of resistance to scientific evidence.
Key facts
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Author: Michael Specter
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Published: 2009 (Penguin Press)
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Genre: Nonfiction, science journalism
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Subject: Science denial, anti-vaccine movement, GMO opposition
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ISBN: 978-1-59420-230-8
Themes and purpose
Specter examines why people reject overwhelming scientific consensus on issues like vaccination, genetically modified foods, and climate change. He argues that denialism is not simply ignorance but an active, often emotionally-driven rejection of evidence that conflicts with identity or worldview.
Structure and content
The book devotes chapters to specific denialist movements: the anti-vaccine movement (Wakefield and the MMR fraud), opposition to GMOs and biotechnology, HIV/AIDS denialism, and climate change skepticism. Each case study traces the social dynamics, rhetorical strategies, and psychological factors that sustain denial.
Reception and impact
Praised for its thorough reporting and fair treatment of complex issues. Critics from the alternative health community accused Specter of dismissing legitimate concerns about corporate influence, but the book was influential in framing denialism as a distinct phenomenon requiring new strategies from science communicators.