Obscurantism

Obscurantism is the practice of deliberately preventing the facts or full details of something from becoming known. It often involves deliberately making something unclear, or concealing knowledge. Historically, it has been used to maintain power or privilege by limiting access to information or promoting a specific agenda. The term is frequently applied to any attempt to obfuscate or mystify, often appearing in discussions concerning science, politics, and religion where intellectual honesty is paramount. It frequently involves an aversion to critical thinking and reliance on dogma or tradition, even if these beliefs are demonstrably false or contradicted by evidence. This approach often seeks to maintain control by stoking fear of change or a desire for simplicity over truth.

Obscurantism meaning with examples

• The university's administration was accused of obscurantism when it refused to release data regarding faculty salaries, attempting to shield information from public scrutiny. This sparked outrage among staff and students alike, fueled by suspicions of inequity and a lack of transparency, leading to calls for greater accountability.
• His political platform was criticised for its blatant obscurantism, filled with vague pronouncements and promises without any concrete plans or details. Critics argued that this was a deliberate tactic to avoid accountability and garner support from uninformed voters who were lured by the illusion of decisive action.
• During the trial, the defense attorney practiced obscurantism, using complex legal jargon and confusing arguments to muddy the waters and obscure the clear evidence of guilt. The goal was to disorient the jury and sow seeds of doubt, hoping to secure a more favorable verdict for their client.
• Certain religious institutions have been accused of obscurantism by suppressing scientific findings that contradict their doctrines. They have chosen to protect their interpretations of sacred texts over any pursuit of evidence that is inconsistent with their theological foundation and teachings.
• The corporation's strategy centered around obscurantism; deliberately shrouding its environmental impact by burying reports, and misrepresenting findings, so that the corporation’s image and bottom line were not jeopardized by public awareness of their practices.