OBSCURANTIST Meaning and
Definition
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Obscurantist is an adjective that refers to someone who promotes or supports ideas or practices that are intentionally unclear, confusing, or mysterious, often in an attempt to suppress knowledge or hinder intellectual enlightenment. The term is derived from the word "obscurantism," which describes a deliberate act or policy of withholding information or promoting ignorance.
An obscurantist mindset is commonly associated with opposition to progress, rational thinking, and the dissemination of knowledge. Obscurantists may employ various tactics such as obfuscation, mystification, or ambiguous language to undermine intellectual clarity. By deliberately cultivating obscurity, they seek to maintain their power or authority by preventing others from fully understanding or challenging their beliefs or ideologies.
An obscurantist may be found in various contexts, including religious, political, academic, or cultural spheres. In religious settings, obscurantists may rely on esoteric interpretations of sacred texts or avoid rational inquiry into dogmas. Politically, they may suppress social or scientific advancements that threaten their authority or interests, often by spreading misinformation or sowing doubt. In academic and cultural circles, obscurantists might promote obscure jargon or complex theories, making knowledge inaccessible to the general public or even their peers.
Critics argue that obscurantism hinders human progress and undermines intellectual freedom. It impedes the pursuit of knowledge, rationality, and open discourse. Those subscribing to obscurantist ideas or practices are often seen as regressive, obstructing the path to enlightenment and impeding understanding.
Common Misspellings for OBSCURANTIST
Etymology of OBSCURANTIST
The term "obscurantist" originated from the French word "obscurantisme", which itself is derived from the Latin word "obscurans", meaning "to obscure" or "to darken". It first emerged in the mid-19th century when a group of French intellectuals, known as the "Obscurantists", sought to oppose the spread of Enlightenment ideas and the promotion of rational thought. The term "obscurantist" initially referred to those who rejected or tried to suppress knowledge, enlightenment, or progressive ideas. Today, it is more commonly used to describe individuals who oppose or hinder the dissemination of knowledge or the adoption of new ideas.
Similar spelling words for OBSCURANTIST
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