Armukadeduse

Armukadeduse is a term that has emerged in discussions related to historical revisionism and the interpretation of past events, particularly in Estonia. It is a neologism, a new word created to describe a specific phenomenon. The term itself is derived from Estonian words, combining "armu" (grace, mercy) and "kadeduse" (envy, jealousy).

The core concept behind armukadeduse refers to a perceived tendency to selectively interpret or downplay negative aspects of a nation's or group's history, while simultaneously emphasizing positive aspects or achievements. This is often done to foster national pride or to present a more favorable image to the outside world. It can involve ignoring or minimizing actions that were morally questionable or harmful.

Scholars and commentators who use the term often suggest that armukadeduse can be a barrier to a full and honest reckoning with the past. By avoiding difficult truths, it may prevent a society from learning from its mistakes and can perpetuate a potentially distorted national narrative. The term implies that this selective presentation is driven by a desire for a kind of historical "grace" or to avoid the "envy" or criticism that might arise from acknowledging darker chapters. It is distinct from outright denial, focusing instead on a curated and often more palatable version of history.