AskHistorians enforces a strict zero tolerance policy for genocide denial, applying it across all recognized genocides without exception. This policy bans denial or deliberate distortion of well-established genocidal events, including the Armenian, Rwandan, Bosnian genocides, and the Holocaust. The forum permits academic discussions on aspects such as intentionality or scope only when they rely on accepted historical facts and consensual scholarship.
This zero tolerance policy is comprehensive and firm. AskHistorians forbids denialism regarding genocides recognized by scholars and international bodies. The policy extends even to atrocities not always labeled “genocide” but widely accepted as factual. Repetitive questions about genocides that have been answered thoroughly receive no direct replies. Discussions on recent or ongoing events are deferred under a “20 Year Rule,” avoiding premature or speculative debates about their classification.
AskHistorians differentiates between denial and academic debate. Genuine questions based on confusion or incomplete knowledge are met with corrections and educational responses. However, malicious denialism—acts to falsify or minimize atrocities—is removed promptly. Clarifications, such as distinguishing cultural genocide from physical genocide (for example, regarding Canada’s Residential School System), are allowed as long as they do not diminish or deny the essential facts.
The moderators enforce this policy vigilantly. Denialist content is swiftly deleted to prevent misinformation from spreading. This approach protects the integrity of the subreddit’s content and maintains high-quality discourse. Users and historians alike must uphold rigorous sourcing and factual accuracy in answers. The moderation team fosters an environment where historical facts are defended firmly against revisionism and pseudo-history, which are seen as dangerous.
The rationale behind the zero tolerance approach focuses on the real-world harm caused by genocide denial. Denialism perpetuates misinformation and inflicts pain on survivors and their descendants. It enables perpetrators to evade accountability and distorts public understanding. The community frequently voices gratitude for this stance, with many sharing personal connections and affirming the importance of upholding truth.
Often discussed is the Armenian Genocide, frequently subject to denial and distortion, notably by political and historical actors in Turkey. AskHistorians explicitly includes it in the zero tolerance policy and rejects denialism, supporting the voices of affected descendants. Similarly, Holocaust denial is unequivocally banned, reflecting its recognized status as dangerous pseudo-history.
The policy acknowledges that some historical events lack universal consensus about their classification as genocide. Examples include the Holodomor and the Bengal Famine. AskHistorians allows scholarly debate on such events but prohibits denial of their occurrence or the suffering involved. This nuanced approach balances open inquiry with respect for factual evidence.
Within the AskHistorians community, this policy strengthens trust. Users appreciate the combination of strict moderation and thorough, well-referenced answers. The forum stands as a reliable resource where history is communicated clearly and responsibly. Many commend the moderators’ ethic and professionalism, which preserve a respectful atmosphere while combating misinformation and denialism.
Additional community guidelines link to detailed explanations and discussions of the zero tolerance policy. These resources clarify how the policy safeguards historical integrity without suppressing legitimate academic discourse. They also address concerns about free speech, emphasizing that denialism is not a matter of differing opinions but a refusal to recognize hard facts.
| Aspect | Policy Details |
|---|---|
| Scope | All recognized genocides; no denial tolerated |
| Recent Events | 20 Year Rule applies to prevent debate on ongoing/very recent cases |
| Academic Debate | Allowed on nuances like intent, scope with accepted facts |
| Moderation | Denialist content removed swiftly; rigorous sourcing required |
| Community Impact | High trust; supportive of victims and descendants; fosters education |
| Key Examples | Armenian Genocide, Holocaust, Holodomor, Bengal Famine (debated) |
- AskHistorians bans genocide denial outright with no exceptions for recognized cases.
- The policy allows scholarly discussion but prohibits denial of agreed facts.
- Recent events are excluded under a 20-year embargo on genocide classification debates.
- Moderators remove denialist content swiftly to guard factual integrity.
- The policy reflects concern for the harm denial causes survivors and historical memory.
- Community and users widely support the policy for ethical and educational values.
