RationalWiki

RationalWiki Logo

RationalWiki is an online encyclopedia that was created with the express purpose of analyzing and refuting pseudoscience and the anti-science movement, exploring authoritarianism and fundamentalism, and analyzing and critiquing various forms of conservatism. It was founded in 2007 as a response to Conservapedia, an American conservative Christian wiki. RationalWiki adopts a much more informal style compared to other encyclopedic projects, often infused with satire and humor, particularly in its criticism of what it considers irrational beliefs.

History[edit | edit source]

RationalWiki began in May 2007, when a group of contributors, disillusioned with the editorial policies and direction of Conservapedia, decided to create a platform that would serve as a counterpoint. The founders aimed to focus on critical thinking, science, and the free exchange of ideas without the imposition of a particular ideological standpoint, aside from a general opposition to pseudoscience and extreme ideologies.

Mission[edit | edit source]

The mission of RationalWiki includes several key objectives:

To provide analysis and refutation of pseudoscience and the anti-science movement.
To explore the characteristics of authoritarianism and fundamentalism.
To critique conservatism, while also providing a platform for rational discussion on these topics.
To document cases and theories of science denial, conspiracy theories, and historical revisionism.
To promote scientific skepticism and the scientific method.

Content and Features[edit | edit source]

RationalWiki contains a wide range of articles, including critiques of pseudoscientific concepts, biographies of individuals associated with pseudoscience and anti-science, and explanations of scientific principles. The website is known for its specific focus on certain topics, such as creationism, alternative medicine, and conspiracy theories, among others.

Debate Spaces[edit | edit source]

One of the unique features of RationalWiki is its debate spaces, where users can engage in discussions and debates on various topics. These spaces are designed to encourage open dialogue and exchange of ideas, although they are moderated to prevent abuse and ensure discussions remain productive.

Editorial Style[edit | edit source]

RationalWiki's editorial style is distinct from traditional encyclopedias. It is characterized by a casual tone, use of satire, and sometimes blunt criticism of ideas and individuals it opposes. This style has been both praised for its approachability and criticized for potentially compromising on neutrality and professionalism.

Impact[edit | edit source]

RationalWiki has become a popular source for critiques of pseudoscience and anti-science rhetoric. It is often cited in discussions related to skepticism and has been referenced by educators and researchers as a resource for understanding and combating misinformation.

Criticism[edit | edit source]

Critics of RationalWiki argue that its informal style and focus on refuting conservative and pseudoscientific ideas can lead to bias and a lack of neutrality. Some have also raised concerns about the site's approach to contentious topics, suggesting that it sometimes engages in personal attacks rather than sticking to substantive critique.

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