denialism

[dih-nahy-uh-lizuhm]

noun

1. to refuse to accept the existence, truth, or validity of something despite evidence or reasonable support for it.

   Her cynical embrace of election denialism was part of her campaign strategy rather than a reflection of sincerely held concern for ballot security.

Usage

See denier ¹ ( def. ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of denialism¹

First recorded in 1870–75; denial ( def. ) + -ism ( def. )

Example Sentences

And Kennedy has a long history of HIV denialism.

From Slate

The case is unique and momentous because this is the only proceeding where Eastman, along with supporting denialist enthusiasts, testified under oath, cross-examined their critics and presented their full denialism defense.

From Salon

The case is unique and momentous because this is the only proceeding where Eastman, along with supporting denialist enthusiasts, testified under oath, cross-examined their critics and presented their full denialism defense.

From Salon

I must have seen the same ProPublica report about the company’s aggressive claim denialism 10 times that day.

From Slate

Choosing to fight would require someone to change their lifestyle and make potentially challenging sacrifices, so it may be psychologically advantageous, in the short term, to "flee" by choosing climate denialism, Brosch said.

From Salon